A recent UK government White Paper sets out its policy for the future of the country's communications and media.

A recent UK government White Paper sets out its policy for the future of the country's communications and media. Some proposals, such as creating a new regulator (OFCOM) and relaxing the rules governing media ownership, have received considerable publicity. Others, less widely reported, are of potential interest far beyond the traditional communications and media sector. They contain threats and opportunities for businesses of all kinds, according to law firm Lovells.These include:

  • protection and opportunities for those who wish to reach customers through communications networks and encounter the power of those who own or control the networks

  • the possibility that the radio spectrum will become a commodity that can be bought and sold

  • an increased regulatory burden with regulation ofe-comnnerce material across all forms of electronic communication becoming a new layer of consumer protection legislation in areas that are already heavily regulated

  • risks for businesses seeking to exploit the "new economy," which may face regulation under the new regime even if they do not consider that they operate in the communications industry.

    A copy of the White Paper is available at www.communicationswhitepoper.gov.uk .

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