Universal service in the context of EU telecommunications rules

In order to provide input into a review of the EU telecommunications regulatory framework to be carried out in 1999, the Commission has published an invitation to tender for a detailed, analytical report on the issue of universal service. The main aim of the study is to exami...

In order to provide input into a review of the EU telecommunications regulatory framework to be carried out in 1999, the Commission has published an invitation to tender for a detailed, analytical report on the issue of universal service.

The main aim of the study is to examine in detail, from a practical viewpoint, issues related to changing the current scope of universal service. In addition, the study should examine how effective and appropriate the current framework is in terms of encouraging the benefits from competition and innovation whilst ensuring that such benefits are spread to all users and that the prices and quality of services to certain users are not compromised.

The study should also examine the application of the current regulatory framework as it relates to costing and financing. Here, it should examine the issue of whether the framework is being effectively implemented in practical terms, whether and to what extent there are significant divergences between costing levels and financing practices in different Member States and, if so, what are the reasons for these.
For further information, please contact (in writing):

European Commission
DG XIII - Telecommunications, information market and exploitation of research
Ms. Alison Birkett
200 rue de la Loi (BU31 3/58)
B-1049 Brussels
Fax [phone]