Telco Bill changes will work for consumers

November 28, 2006

Telco Bill changes will work for consumers

Today's Select Committee seal of approval on the Telecommunications Amendment Bill means consumers can look forward to better services from more providers.

Revisions to the Bill announced today have TelstraClear's broad support.

TelstraClear Chief Executive Dr Allan Freeth says the company reviewed the initial amendments proposed in June and sought enhanced equivalence and transparency rules.

"The stocktake announcements resulted in a Bill we supported, although we had suggestions on how it could be improved to ensure customers aren't penalised if they choose to buy from a Telecom competitor."

"Many of those transparency and equivalence suggestions have been incorporated," says Dr Freeth.

Dr Freeth says TelstraClear's submission to the Finance and Expenditure Select Committee focused on 'getting there faster and getting it right', with the premise that New Zealand can adopt proven rules from overseas jurisdictions and hasten broadband growth.

"We've invested on the basis of the May stocktake announcements and our shareholder has indicated that more may follow if the legislative changes proceed. Today's announcements provide us with continued confidence," says Dr Freeth.

"We will work with the Government on the details around separation and the Commerce Commission on the all-important terms for local loop access. At the same time, we'll focus on building our broadband customer base and creation of our unique home phone, mobile and broadband service 'Tauranga Unplugged'," he says.

ENDS

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