Press Release: Telecommunications: Commission requests more market data before assessing draft regulatory measures for the German wholesale leased lines markets

In a letter dated 29 September 2006, the Commission has informed the German telecom regulator Bundesnetzagentur (“BNetzA”) that at this stage it has serious doubts as regards the compatibility of the notified draft measures for the German wholesale leased lines markets with Community law. In the Commission’s view, BNetzA has so far provided insufficient evidence to support its definition of the wholesale leased lines markets in Germany and the conclusions on the competitive situation in certain market segments, says the Commission. The wholesale leased lines markets are crucial markets for business customers. During the next two months, it will call for and assess further market data from BNetzA and market players. On the basis of the additional data received, the Commission will decide whether BNetzA will need to withdraw or whether it can adopt the proposed regulatory measure.