Next Generation Telecom Market Must Be Competitive

3.56.25pm UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 28th Apr 2004

Commenting on the opening of Ofcom's consultation on the future of UK telecommunications, Malcolm Bruce MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow DTI Secretary, said: "The issue to be resolved is the need to have a major provider of next generation broadband, whilst not allowing BT's continued dominance to prevent a competitive market to emerge."

"Clearly there are going to be new technological developments which bring new suppliers into the market, but BT's position can only be tolerated if it delivers next generation broadband and lower cost local loop, and bundling, to allow effective competition at the end of the line."

"The Government must make a commitment to ensure a universal service is available at the sharp end of technology."