Implementation of the Directives Tim Cross DTI / DCMS Communications Bill Team

Implementation Permanent Implementation –Communications Bill Interim Implementation –Statutory Instruments under the European Communities Act 1972 (“ECA”)

Interim Implementation (I) Why is it necessary? –Timing problem –Deadline for transposition - 25 July 2003 –Royal Assent for Bill and Ofcom operational - Autumn 2003?

Interim Implementation (II) Solution - a set of SIs Scope of SIs –Everything in Bill relating to the Directives subject to ECA –Main categories: Framework for telecoms - Framework for spectrum Detailed provisions on telecoms

Interim Implementation (III) Framework provisions - telecoms –General provisions establishing the new framework –Approach - where possible to give Oftel powers in the same way as the Bill gives powers to Ofcom –Egs of areas: key definitions, market reviews, SMP provisions, universal service, appeals, enforcement, information gathering, Code

Interim Implementation (IV) Detailed provisions on telecoms –Implications of ECA restrictions –Egs General conditions of entitlement, notice on universal service, designation and notification requirements, rules on administrative charges, restrictions and conditions in relation to the Code

Interim Implementation (V) Timing –Draft SIs for consultation roughly in line with the publication / introduction of revised Bill ie by end of year