The deal agreed during the merger somewhat reduces imbalances between the three UK operators while improving Virgin Media O2’s competitive and network positions
Event debrief: ComReg Conference 2025
Alongside further pushback against an overhaul of EU telecoms regulation, there were calls for the effective enforcement of cybersecurity frameworks amid geopolitical uncertainty
Ofcom’s strategic approach to AI
Ofcom is aiming to support innovative applications of AI across communications markets, shifting its approach that had largely focused on understanding the technology's risks
The European Parliament’s tech sovereignty report
Beyond its focus on building the ‘Eurostack’, the ITRE Committee strike a middle ground in aligning with some but not all recommendations for the Digital Networks Act
Netherlands: A call to action on telecoms policy reform
The Government urges stronger regulation and effective competition, considering that the European framework should be seen as a success
Australia: Alternative licensing for expiring spectrum
Despite ruling out including rollout obligations in spectrum licences, ACMA sees potential benefits of a secondary licensing framework for rural competition and consumer choice
MWC25: Regulation & Policy roundup from Day 1
Familiar calls for deregulation and consolidation to help spur investment alongside debates over fair share and the governance of AI set the tone for the first day of the event
The EC’s 2025 work programme
The EC’s planned activities seek to kickstart growth by cutting red tape and enhancing competition, while being mindful of the security of critical digital infrastructure
Extending spectrum licences in Germany
The Bundeskartellamt argues that conditions attached to the proposed extension of spectrum usage rights would harm new entrant 1&1 and hinder wholesale competition
Event debrief: TechUK’s Future Telecoms Conference
While panellists were generally positive about the Government’s commitment to economic growth, questions remain on how that will be translated into tangible policy change
