RNS Number : 1826S
Office of Communications
05 November 2019
5 November 2019
Funding regulations for universal service providers
Ofcom has today published proposed rules on how universal service providers, such as BT and KCOM, should claim back any unfair costs involved in providing a universal service. These rules would apply to the broadband universal service, but also to any other universal service obligations.
Last year, the UK Government introduced legislation for a broadband 'universal service obligation' (USO) - a safety net that will give eligible homes and businesses the right to request a decent connection. Ofcom is responsible for implementing the USO, including establishing an industry fund to compensate the universal service providers for any unfair costs they incur when delivering the scheme.
Today's consultation closes on 18 December, and we plan to publish a statement on funding regulations in spring 2020. People will be able to start requesting a USO connection from 20 March 2020 onwards.
Further details can be found on the Ofcom website:
https://www.ofcom.org.uk/consultations-and-statements/category-2/compensating-providers-delivering-universal-services
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