The proposed Code, published in September 2016, forms the basis of intensive negotiations between the Council and European Parliament.
The development of a “Gigabit Society”, with ultrafast connectivity and sustainable competition in the medium and long term, depends on a regulatory framework that supports the necessary step-change in connectivity investment. The proposed Code should aim to maximise the contribution, and realise the full potential, of advanced connectivity infrastructure to driving economic and societal development.
Greater harmonisation of spectrum policy can improve the quality, reach and adoption of mobile broadband services in support of the EU’s Digital Single Market. Combined with technology and service neutrality, and reduced barriers to spectrum trading, these measures would encourage investment in mobile networks, enable more advanced mobile services, and ensure more efficient use of spectrum.
The proposed Code aims to re-establish the European Union as a digital leader, and bring further benefits for end users. It is time to empower end users by implementing a framework that will provide providing a sound platform for the ongoing digital revolution, supported by consistent consumer rights.
Both the EU Council and the European Parliament have already started discussions on the Code. Early December, telecoms ministers had a political debate on the proposed reforms. In the meantime, the European Parliament is picking rapporteurs that will lead the discussions on the Code in the Parliament. The GSMA has already established a close dialogue with both EU institutions.
A European leadership position in mobile, and particularly in 5G, will advance the Digital Single Market and will help connect everyone and everything to a better future. Regulatory modernisation is critical to achieving this and the draft Code provides a solid platform. These reforms are not just about what operators want, they are about what our economy and society need to reap the full benefits of the digital opportunities ahead of us. The Commission’s proposals are a good starting point and the GSMA calls on the co-legislators to carry forward this work with a particular focus on prioritising investment and supporting vital reform of EU spectrum policy.
The GSMA position can be accessed here.