On 21 October, Ofcom announced that it was revising its guidance on net neutrality. Otherwise referred to as ‘open internet’ net neutrality is the principle that users of the internet should be in control of what they see and do online – rather than the providers. Rules on net neutrality
Continue Reading Ofcom consults on more liberal net neutrality guidanceTelecoms
Project Gigabit: Summer Update 2022
In June 2022, DLA Piper published its latest article in its series on Project Gigabit (“Project”), detailing progress made by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (“DCMS”) up until Spring 2022 towards national coverage of gigabit-capable broadband. Further detail on the overall Project can…
Continue Reading Project Gigabit: Summer Update 2022New rules on short and simple telecoms contract details
On Friday 17 June 2022, Ofcom announced a new set of rules coming into force requiring customers of telecoms services (including broadband, mobile and landline services) to be provided with “short and simple” contract details when signing up to a new deal, and an expanded right to exit from their…
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First test of Ofcom’s new non-geostationary orbit (NGSO) satellite system licensing process
In the UK, any person who wishes to operate an earth station gateway, or earth station terminals, as part of a NGSO satellite network must obtain a relevant earth station licence from Ofcom.
In December 2021, Ofcom introduced changes to its existing NGSO earth station licensing process.
As part of…
Continue Reading First test of Ofcom’s new non-geostationary orbit (NGSO) satellite system licensing process
Project Gigabit: Spring Update 2022
In February 2022 DLA Piper published an article on the winter update (the “Winter Update”) to Project Gigabit (“Project”) and the developments made by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (“DCMS”) as it progresses towards national coverage of gigabit-capable broadband. Further detail…
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Ofcom proceeds with implementing the Wireless Telegraphy (Mobile Repeater) (Exemption) Regulations 2022
In the UK, Ofcom is responsible for, among other things, authorising and moderating use of radio spectrum. This is done through the granting of licences under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 2006 or by making regulations exempting the use of particular equipment from the need to obtain such a licence. As…
Continue Reading Ofcom proceeds with implementing the Wireless Telegraphy (Mobile Repeater) (Exemption) Regulations 2022
UK plans to encourage the development of the UK space sector
Under the Government’s 2021 National Space Strategy, the Government has an aim for the UK to be a leader of commercial small satellite launches in Europe by 2030.
It is clear the Government and industry are taking steps towards achieving this goal.
As we move into the second half of…
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Ofcom publishes new Space Spectrum Strategy for consultation
On 15 March 2022, Ofcom published a proposed Space Spectrum Strategy (Strategy) for consultation. The Strategy replaces an existing Space Spectrum Strategy published by Ofcom in 2017 and specifically sets out practical work actions Ofcom will focus on over the next two to four years.
Due to the…
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Telecoms security: Draft Ofcom compliance guidance and resilience guidelines released for consultation
This year has seen several pieces of legislation, regulations, and other instruments, released by the UK Government under a broader package of measures to maintain and enhance the security of communications networks and services in the UK. This includes, among others, the Telecommunications (Security) Act 2021 (the “Security Act…
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Draft Telecoms Security Regulations and Code of Practice released for consultation
In November 2021, DLA Piper reported on the new Telecommunications (Security) Act 2021 (the “Security Act”), which amends the existing telecoms security regime in place under the Communications Act 2003 (the “Communications Act”).
The Security Act establishes the overarching security obligations of telecoms providers, and provides…
Continue Reading Draft Telecoms Security Regulations and Code of Practice released for consultation