Commentary on Sections Part 2: Networks, Services and the Radio Spectrum Chapter 1: Electronic Communications Networks and Services Section 66: Designation of universal service providers
179.OFCOM have the power, by regulations, to provide for a procedure for designation of communications providers (or persons who are not communications providers, in the case of supplying directories or directory enquiry facilities) who will be subject to universal service conditions. Such regulations must establish an efficient, objective, transparent, and non-discriminatory procedure for designation. Regulations made under this section are also to provide for a designation to cease to have effect where all the universal service conditions applying to a provider are revoked.
180.Where OFCOM designate a person as a universal service provider, or where a designation ceases to have effect, they must notify this fact to the European Commission. This implements Article 36(1) of the Universal Service Directive.