Oftel has published four explanatory statements and Notifications concluding its reviews of competition in narrowband retail, wholesale (origination and termination) and Internet markets.
These documents are published to bring to a close Oftel's review of competition in these markets as required under the new regulatory framework for electronic communications networks and services which entered into force in the UK on 25 July 2003. The basis of this new regulatory framework is five new EC Communications Directives that are designed to create harmonised regulation across Europe. Four of these Directives have been implemented in the UK since 25 July 2003 via the Communications Act 2003.
Oftel has previously published consultation documents on each of these reviews on 17 March and 26 August 2003. Oftel's final decision has taken account of all comments made in response to each of these review.