Government consults industry on communications bill

The government has issued a call for evidence from the communications industry to help shape the direction of a new communications bill in an effort to ensure that the UK is well placed to take advantage of future innovations.

In an open letter, culture minister Jeremy Hunt set out the areas on which the government is looking for guidance to create a framework for growth and innovation to thrive in the UK.

"The aim is to put the UK on the path to sustainable long-term economic growth, and to ensure that a balanced and proportionate system is put in place which supports growth not only in the communications sector, but in the economy as a whole," he said.

"We want a communications framework that will drive growth and innovation, remove unnecessary burdens and continue to protect consumers and the public."

Hunt added that the new bill must reflect the dynamic nature of the communications industry to ensure that it remains relevant over the short and long term.

"Ten years ago few could have predicted the extent to which developments in communications and media technology would influence our lives," he said.

"We need to imagine what new technologies will emerge and how broadcasting and telecommunications might look in another 15 years."

The document also asks for thoughts on what the government can do to increase the take up of superfast broadband in rural and urban areas, and how demand for mobile spectrum should be balanced among competing groups.

Submissions can be made through the Department for Culture, Media and Sport web site with a deadline of 30 June, after which the government will use the information submitted to form a green paper.

However, it is unlikely that any new bill will be made law for some time as the proposed timetable forecasts the creation of a draft bill by April 2013 at the earliest.