NBTC seeks telecoms' input on 3G service fees
The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission yesterday asked the three winners of slots on the 2.1-gigahertz spectrum to propose for its consideration on November 30 their views on appropriate fees for third-generation cellular service.
The NBTC wants the fees to be as low as practical to benefit consumers. It discussed the matter yesterday with the three winners of its spectrum auction.
Representatives of Advanced Wireless Network, Real Future and DTAC Network agreed in principle on maximising benefits to consumers but said more details needed to be worked out.
The NBTC wants fees for both voice and data 3G service to be 15-20 per cent lower than the present rates. It is drawing up regulations to govern the maximum 3G service tariff, which is expected to be completed next year.
Meanwhile, the Central Administrative Court will call an urgent inquiry session today with the Ombudsman on the latter’s petition to the court to consider whether there was free and fair competition at the NBTC’s auction of the 2.1GHz spectrum slots on October 16. The court will also question the NBTC on the case tomorrow.
The Ombudsman petitioned the court last week on the matter, and also sought an injunction to suspend temporarily the NBTC plan to grant licences to the three bid winners.
Under the terms of the auction, the commission is to grant the licences within 90 days of approving the bid outcomes. Its telecom committee endorsed the bids on October 18.
The NBTC has joined with the International Telecommunication Union to evaluate the outcome of the auction, and will use the evaluation to plan future auctions.
