Telecommunications: interconnection, universal service and interoperability of networks and services, open network provision ONP

The rapporteur, Mrs Read, again presented the amendments that had not been taken over by the Council, namely those relating to the cost and financing of the universal service, the cost of interconnection, environmental protection, telephone numbering and the setting-up of a European regulatory authority. Commissioner Bangemann declared that the establishment of a regulatory authority was absolutely essential. He assured the rapporteur that Amendments Nos 5 and 27 on number portability would be acceptable and that Amendment No 10 would also be taken over if it could be re-worded.