Concerns lurk about German telecom market; U.S. and others wonder if deregulation effort will bring competition
Article Abstract:
Germany is facing a number of issues as it prepares for the deregulation of its telecommunications market. Deutsche Telekom will lease its lines to competitors, but the usage fees companies will have to pay have not been decided. Also under discussion is the who will be running the new telecom regulatory body. Wolfgang Boetsch, the country's highest telecommunications regulator is under political pressure to favor Telekom. Such a move will put Germany closer to meeting the criteria required for a single European currency. The US is worried that Mr. Boetsch will succumb to these pressures, and government officials spoke to him of their concerns on his recent trip to the Washington. Officials stressed that a well written law does not guarantee an open market.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1997
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Likely pick for FCC could help consumers
Article Abstract:
William Kennard is being considered by Pres Clinton for the position of head of the FCC. Kennard is expected to back pro-consumer polices, which would aid long-distance telephone companies and high-tech startups as well as consumers. He is also in favor of encouraging the wireless services and satellite services industries to grow. These industries will create competition for the cable industry as well as provide the Baby Bells with rivals for the local-telephone market. Kennard's position on what direction telecommunications should take in the future is unclear. Many political observers believe his unknown stand on telecommunications will aid him when the Senate decides whether or not to approve him.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1997
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Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
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