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

The Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs adopted the report by Mrs Imelda Mary READ (PSE, UK) on the proposal for a directive relating to interconnection in the telecommunications sector with a view to ensuring a universal service and interoperability by application of the principles for the provision of an open network (ONP) (COD0207). With regard to the Commission's proposal, the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs proposed, in particular: - conferring upon the Commission increased powers of action so that rules could be defined at European level. Eventually, a European regulatory authority could be established; - clarifying certain control rules; - limiting obligations relating to transparency and accounting separation to certain large organisations; - encouraging competition whilst preventing penetration of the market by inefficient players; - encouraging investment rather than physical collocation; - ensuring numbering continuity and number portability when changing supplier; - emphasising universal service, with the introduction of European legislation, and sharing the cost of universal service between all operators. �