Following the general assembly of the Independent Regulators Group (IRG) and the plenary of the European Regulators Group (ERG), held on 26 and 27 February 2009 in Berlin, the ERG has published the reports, which were approved in session, on ensuring transparency of tariff information, and on the implications on competition and regulatory aspects of fixed-mobile convergence, as well as on the application of margin squeeze tests to bundled offers.
Under the title "Report on Ensuring Transparency of Tariff Information", the group examines the problem of transparency of information provided to users of electronic communications services, particularly in regard to tariffs, seeking to identify the potential causes of the problem. At the same time, a survey was conducted into the practices currently implemented to disclose information to users. The survey included the contributions of ANACOM and the regulators of Norway (NPT), Hungary (NHH), United Kingdom (OFCOM) and Slovenia (APEK) in this context, describing experiences gained in the implementation of information tools with respect to tariffs.
In the "Report on Fixed-Mobile Convergence: implications on competition and regulatory aspects" the different architectures adopted to implement fixed-mobile convergent services are presented, with the possibility considered of different virtual mobile operators competing to provide these services, besides the fact that each architecture has different implications for end-users in terms of numbering and pricing with respect to making and receiving calls.
The group also discussed the recent developments in the deployment of next generation access networks in Europe, considering that the current regulatory framework provides the tools needed to encourage investment in next generation network infrastructure while maintaining the level and balance of competition.
In light of ongoing discussions on the revision of the regulatory framework, the ERG decided to modify its 2009 work programme, postponing the work on tariff transparency until the provisions of the new universal service directive are adopted by co-decision. The plenary also approved the 2008 Annual Report, which contains a record of activities in 2008, for submission to the Commission and to the European Parliament and the Council.
Further information:
- IRG - Independent Regulators Group https://www.irg.eu/
- ERG - European Regulators Group http://erg.ec.europa.eu/
