Electronic communications: authorisation of networks and services

The European Parliament approved the report Mrs Angelike NIEBLER (EPP-ED, D) on the authorisation of electronic communications networks and services. It stresses the need for simple harmonised rules for market access. An amendment passed to the common position says that where, in case of competitive or comparative selection procedures, fees for rights of use of radio frequencies consist entirely or partly of a one-off amount, payment arrangements should ensure that such fees do not in practice lead to selection on the basis of criteria unrelated to the objective of ensuring optimal use of radio frequencies. The European Commission may publish on a regular basis benchmark studies with regard to best practices of allocation of radio frequencies, assigning of numbers or rights of way. Parliament also stressed that Mmember States should not restrict or withdraw rights to install facilities bedfore the expiry date of the period for which they were granted except where justified and where applicable in conformity with relevant national provisions regarding compensation for withdrawal of rights. Lastly, Member States may extend the validity of those rights and obligations until at the latest 9 months after the date of application.�