Ofcom calls for swifter super-fast broadband roll-out

Media regulator Ofcom has called on industry leaders to accelerate the roll-out of super-fast broadband across the UK, suggesting fixed-line operators must differentiate themselves in the face of rapid take-up of mobile broadband. The call was made as Ofcom outlines its investment plans for super-fast networks.

Chief exeuctive Ed Richards (pictured) told industry trade body Intellect’s conference today (July 3) that he has written to chiefs across the communications sector to “initiate a concerted dialogue” on the key issues.

Ofcom will also host a series of working sessions and plans to set out details of a regulatory framework for super-fast broadband in September this year.

Richards says he hopes the rapid take-up of mobile broadband will “provide a further spur” to fixed line operators to upgrade to next generation high bandwidth products in order to “differentiate themselves competitively” to consumers.

He adds: “Now we have meaningful engagement, the time is right to change gear in our determination to address regulatory and other issues of practical implementation.”