OECD issues policy statement on broadband
The organisation for economic cooperation and development (OECD) has said that technology neutral government policies are essential if the social and economic benefits of broadband are to be fully realised. In a statement published on 27 October, the OECD's committee on information, computer and communications policy (ICCP) outlined the principles which it believes should guide the development of high-speed Internet access, and identified several priority areas for action. With regard to the various broadband technologies currently available to consumers, such as DSL, cable, fixed wireless and satellite, the OECD states: 'Government policy has to be pro competitive, with particular attention to neutrality between such different technologies.' A second guiding principle identified in the policy statement is the encouragement of research and development in the field of information and communication technologies (ICT) for the development of broadband and the enhancement of its economic, social and cultural effectiveness. Other standards that the OECD believes should underpin broadband development include the need for adequate information security and privacy, access at fair prices for all citizens regardless of location, and regulatory frameworks that balance the interests of suppliers and users, for example with respect to intellectual property rights. Where it is not already the case, governments should act to liberalise telecommunications markets, according to the policy statement. However, where there is insufficient competition, pro competitive safeguards may also be required. Governments can also play a key role in demonstrating the potential of broadband services and content, notably by using the technology to increase the efficiency of public service delivery. Priority should be given to education, healthcare, and general information services in government broadband strategies. Broadband use in OECD countries grew by over 50 per cent in the year leading up to September 2003, and the organisation believes that the significance of high speed Internet access as a driver of growth has been clearly established. Hugo Parr, Director General of Norway's Ministry of Trade and Industry and chair of the ICCP committee, said: 'ICT is a key driver in economic growth and broadband is probably the single most important, cross cutting development in ICT at this time. Choosing the right policy responses can have an immense impact both for the public and private sectors.