# Diario Oficial C 62/12 d

| | ISSN 1725-244X |
| --- | --- |
| Diario Oficial
  de la Unión Europea | C 62 |
| | |
| Edición en lengua española | Comunicaciones e informaciones | 48o año12 de marzo de 2005 |

ISSN 1725-244X

Diario Oficial

de la Unión Europea

C 62

Edición en lengua española

Comunicaciones e informaciones

48o año12 de marzo de 2005

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| Número de información | Sumario | Página |
| --- | --- | --- |
| | I   Comunicaciones |
| | Consejo |
| 2005/C 062/1 | Resolución del Consejo, de 9 de diciembre de 2004, sobre las perspectivas futuras de las tecnologías de la información y de las comunicaciones (TIC) | 1 |
| | Comisión |
| 2005/C 062/2 | Tipo de cambio del euro | 4 |
| 2005/C 062/3 | Notificación previa de una operación de concentración (Caso no COMP/M.3745 — Severstal/Lucchini) — Caso susceptible de ser tratado por procedimiento simplificado (
  1
  ) | 5 |
| 2005/C 062/4 | Autorización de las ayudas estatales en el marco de las disposiciones de los artículos 87 y 88 del Tratado CE — Casos con respecto a los cuales la Comisión no presenta objeciones (
  1
  ) | 6 |
| 2005/C 062/5 | Comunicación del Gobierno de Malta, de 21 de enero de 2005, relativa a la Directiva 94/22/CE del Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo, de 30 de mayo de 1994, sobre las condiciones para la concesión y el ejercicio de las autorizaciones de prospección, exploración y producción de hidrocarburos (
  1
  ) | 7 |
| 2005/C 062/6 | Anuncio del Gobierno de Malta, de 21 de enero de 2005, relativo a la Directiva 94/22/CE del Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo, de 30 de mayo de 1994, sobre las condiciones para la concesión y el ejercicio de las autorizaciones de prospección, exploración y producción de hidrocarburos (
  1
  ) | 8 |
| 2005/C 062/7 | Notificación previa de una operación de concentración (Caso no COMP/M.3743 — DuPont/DDE) — Caso susceptible de ser tratado por procedimiento simplificado (
  1
  ) | 9 |
| 2005/C 062/8 | Ayudas estatales — Reino Unido — Ayuda estatal no C 4/2005 / (ex NN 57/2004) — Impuesto sobre infraestructuras de telecomunicaciones — Invitación a presentar observaciones en aplicación del artículo 88, apartado 2 del Tratado CE (
  1
  ) | 10 |

Número de información

Sumario

Página

I   Comunicaciones

Consejo

2005/C 062/1

Resolución del Consejo, de 9 de diciembre de 2004, sobre las perspectivas futuras de las tecnologías de la información y de las comunicaciones (TIC)

1

Comisión

2005/C 062/2

Tipo de cambio del euro

4

2005/C 062/3

Notificación previa de una operación de concentración (Caso no COMP/M.3745 — Severstal/Lucchini) — Caso susceptible de ser tratado por procedimiento simplificado (
  1
  )

o

1

5

2005/C 062/4

Autorización de las ayudas estatales en el marco de las disposiciones de los artículos 87 y 88 del Tratado CE — Casos con respecto a los cuales la Comisión no presenta objeciones (
  1
  )

1

6

2005/C 062/5

Comunicación del Gobierno de Malta, de 21 de enero de 2005, relativa a la Directiva 94/22/CE del Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo, de 30 de mayo de 1994, sobre las condiciones para la concesión y el ejercicio de las autorizaciones de prospección, exploración y producción de hidrocarburos (
  1
  )

1

7

2005/C 062/6

Anuncio del Gobierno de Malta, de 21 de enero de 2005, relativo a la Directiva 94/22/CE del Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo, de 30 de mayo de 1994, sobre las condiciones para la concesión y el ejercicio de las autorizaciones de prospección, exploración y producción de hidrocarburos (
  1
  )

1

8

2005/C 062/7

Notificación previa de una operación de concentración (Caso no COMP/M.3743 — DuPont/DDE) — Caso susceptible de ser tratado por procedimiento simplificado (
  1
  )

o

1

9

2005/C 062/8

Ayudas estatales — Reino Unido — Ayuda estatal no C 4/2005 / (ex NN 57/2004) — Impuesto sobre infraestructuras de telecomunicaciones — Invitación a presentar observaciones en aplicación del artículo 88, apartado 2 del Tratado CE (
  1
  )

o

1

10

| | III   Informaciones |
| --- | --- |
| | Comisión |
| 2005/C 062/9 | UK-Greenock: Explotación de servicios aéreos regulares — Concurso convocado por Irlanda de conformidad con lo dispuesto en la letra d) del apartado 1 del artículo 4 del Reglamento (CEE) no 2408/92 del Consejo para la explotación de servicios aéreos regulares entre Galway/Na Minna y las islas Aran (
  1
  ) | 19 |

III   Informaciones

Comisión

2005/C 062/9

UK-Greenock: Explotación de servicios aéreos regulares — Concurso convocado por Irlanda de conformidad con lo dispuesto en la letra d) del apartado 1 del artículo 4 del Reglamento (CEE) no 2408/92 del Consejo para la explotación de servicios aéreos regulares entre Galway/Na Minna y las islas Aran (
  1
  )

o

1

19

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| | (1)   Texto pertinente a efectos del EEE |

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(1)   Texto pertinente a efectos del EEE

1

| ES | |
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ES

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I Comunicaciones

Consejo

| 12.3.2005 | ES | Diario Oficial de la Unión Europea | C 62/1 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.3.2005

ES

Diario Oficial de la Unión Europea

C 62/1

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RESOLUCIÓN DEL CONSEJO

de 9 de diciembre de 2004

sobre las perspectivas futuras de las tecnologías de la información y de las comunicaciones (TIC)

(2005/C 62/01)

EL CONSEJO DE LA UNIÓN EUROPEA,

Tras expresar su satisfacción por la Comunicación de la Comisión «Los retos de la sociedad europea de la información después de 2005» y por la Comunicación de la Comisión «Servicios móviles de banda ancha»;

Recordando

| 1. | las conclusiones de la Presidencia del Consejo Europeo de Lisboa de 23 y 24 de marzo de 2000 |
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1.

las conclusiones de la Presidencia del Consejo Europeo de Lisboa de 23 y 24 de marzo de 2000

| 2. | las conclusiones de la Presidencia del Consejo Europeo de junio de 2002 en las que se aprobaban los objetivos del Plan de Acción e-Europa 2005 |
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2.

las conclusiones de la Presidencia del Consejo Europeo de junio de 2002 en las que se aprobaban los objetivos del Plan de Acción e-Europa 2005

| 3. | la Resolución del Consejo de 18 de febrero de 2003 sobre la aplicación del Plan de Acción e-Europa 2005 |
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3.

la Resolución del Consejo de 18 de febrero de 2003 sobre la aplicación del Plan de Acción e-Europa 2005

| 4. | las conclusiones de la Presidencia del Consejo Europeo de primavera de 2003 en las que se invitaba a los Estados miembros de la UE-15 a establecer estrategias nacionales de banda ancha antes del final de 2003 |
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4.

las conclusiones de la Presidencia del Consejo Europeo de primavera de 2003 en las que se invitaba a los Estados miembros de la UE-15 a establecer estrategias nacionales de banda ancha antes del final de 2003

| 5. | las conclusiones del Consejo de 20 de noviembre de 2003 sobre el papel de la administración electrónica en el futuro de Europa |
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5.

las conclusiones del Consejo de 20 de noviembre de 2003 sobre el papel de la administración electrónica en el futuro de Europa

| 6. | las conclusiones de la Presidencia del Consejo Europeo de primavera de 2004 en las que se destacaba la necesidad de nuevas estrategias en el ámbito de las comunicaciones electrónicas |
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6.

las conclusiones de la Presidencia del Consejo Europeo de primavera de 2004 en las que se destacaba la necesidad de nuevas estrategias en el ámbito de las comunicaciones electrónicas

| 7. | las conclusiones del Consejo de 8 de marzo de 2004 sobre la evolución reciente en el sector de las comunicaciones electrónicas en Europa, en las que se confirma la importancia de las TIC para el crecimiento y la competitividad |
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7.

las conclusiones del Consejo de 8 de marzo de 2004 sobre la evolución reciente en el sector de las comunicaciones electrónicas en Europa, en las que se confirma la importancia de las TIC para el crecimiento y la competitividad

| 8. | las conclusiones del Consejo de 8 de marzo de 2004 sobre la revisión a medio plazo del Plan de Acción e-Europa 2005, en las que se confirma la validez de los objetivos de e-Europa 2005 en el contexto de la ampliación |
| --- | --- |

8.

las conclusiones del Consejo de 8 de marzo de 2004 sobre la revisión a medio plazo del Plan de Acción e-Europa 2005, en las que se confirma la validez de los objetivos de e-Europa 2005 en el contexto de la ampliación

| 9. | las conclusiones del Consejo de 10 de junio de 2004 sobre la actualización del Plan de Acción e-Europa 2005 y las estrategias nacionales de banda ancha |
| --- | --- |

9.

las conclusiones del Consejo de 10 de junio de 2004 sobre la actualización del Plan de Acción e-Europa 2005 y las estrategias nacionales de banda ancha

| 10. | las conclusiones de la Presidencia del Consejo Europeo de 4 y 5 de noviembre de 2004, en las que se acoge con satisfacción el informe del Grupo de alto nivel presidido por el Sr. Kok |
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10.

las conclusiones de la Presidencia del Consejo Europeo de 4 y 5 de noviembre de 2004, en las que se acoge con satisfacción el informe del Grupo de alto nivel presidido por el Sr. Kok

| 11. | las orientaciones de la Conferencia de alto nivel de 29 y 30 de septiembre de 2004 sobre las perspectivas futuras de las TIC; |
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11.

las orientaciones de la Conferencia de alto nivel de 29 y 30 de septiembre de 2004 sobre las perspectivas futuras de las TIC;

Reconociendo lo siguiente:

| 1. | Para realizar los objetivos de Lisboa de marzo de 2000, existe una necesidad patente de revisar y en su caso de mejorar las políticas –tanto a escala europea como nacional– con el fin de acrecentar la incorporación e implantación de las TIC en el conjunto de la sociedad. |
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1.

Para realizar los objetivos de Lisboa de marzo de 2000, existe una necesidad patente de revisar y en su caso de mejorar las políticas –tanto a escala europea como nacional– con el fin de acrecentar la incorporación e implantación de las TIC en el conjunto de la sociedad.

| 2. | El sector de las TIC, que abarca las tecnologías de información, comunicaciones electrónicas e industrias audiovisuales, es en sí mismo un sector económico de gran importancia con un potencial considerable de crecimiento futuro y con repercusiones en la práctica totalidad de las demás actividades económicas. |
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2.

El sector de las TIC, que abarca las tecnologías de información, comunicaciones electrónicas e industrias audiovisuales, es en sí mismo un sector económico de gran importancia con un potencial considerable de crecimiento futuro y con repercusiones en la práctica totalidad de las demás actividades económicas.

| 3. | La utilización de las TIC ejerce un impacto directo sustancial sobre la productividad y la competitividad de la economía europea. |
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3.

La utilización de las TIC ejerce un impacto directo sustancial sobre la productividad y la competitividad de la economía europea.

| 4. | Las TIC constituyen una herramienta valiosa para propiciar la cohesión económica y social y los valores ciudadanos en una Europa integradora, para fomentar las identidades culturales, la integración social y el multilingüismo, y para aumentar la transparencia y la participación en la sociedad. |
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4.

Las TIC constituyen una herramienta valiosa para propiciar la cohesión económica y social y los valores ciudadanos en una Europa integradora, para fomentar las identidades culturales, la integración social y el multilingüismo, y para aumentar la transparencia y la participación en la sociedad.

| 5. | Unas políticas globales de TIC pueden aportar una sólida contribución a los objetivos de crecimiento, productividad y competitividad de la UE mediante la creación de puestos de trabajo de gran calidad, la mejora de los resultados económicos globales, la modernización de los servicios públicos y el fomento de procedimientos comerciales modernizados tanto en el sector público como en el privado. |
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5.

Unas políticas globales de TIC pueden aportar una sólida contribución a los objetivos de crecimiento, productividad y competitividad de la UE mediante la creación de puestos de trabajo de gran calidad, la mejora de los resultados económicos globales, la modernización de los servicios públicos y el fomento de procedimientos comerciales modernizados tanto en el sector público como en el privado.

| 6. | Para atender a la evolución en el campo de las TIC, las políticas deben elaborarse en un diálogo permanente entre las autoridades públicas, el sector privado y otros interlocutores interesados. |
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6.

Para atender a la evolución en el campo de las TIC, las políticas deben elaborarse en un diálogo permanente entre las autoridades públicas, el sector privado y otros interlocutores interesados.

| 7. | Un sector de TIC innovador y competitivo redundaría en beneficio de la UE dentro de unos mercados mundiales en rápida expansión y cada vez más competitivos, |
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7.

Un sector de TIC innovador y competitivo redundaría en beneficio de la UE dentro de unos mercados mundiales en rápida expansión y cada vez más competitivos,

Considera que a efectos de unas políticas globales de TIC son pertinentes los siguientes elementos:

Un sector de TIC de excelente nivel y empresas innovadoras

| — | Seguir invirtiendo en un espacio de I+D sólido para las TIC, tanto en el sector público como en el privado, reforzando la excelencia europea en I+D mediante la creación de un entorno científico, financiero y empresarial favorable. |
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Seguir invirtiendo en un espacio de I+D sólido para las TIC, tanto en el sector público como en el privado, reforzando la excelencia europea en I+D mediante la creación de un entorno científico, financiero y empresarial favorable.

| — | Promover un entorno propicio que estimule la libre circulación del conocimiento y la innovación, y en el que los resultados de la investigación se traduzcan en aplicaciones y productos con plusvalía. |
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Promover un entorno propicio que estimule la libre circulación del conocimiento y la innovación, y en el que los resultados de la investigación se traduzcan en aplicaciones y productos con plusvalía.

| — | Fomentar, especialmente en las PYME, la incorporación efectiva de nuevos procedimientos de comercio electrónico y la adopción de nuevos modelos empresariales que exploten el potencial de las TIC. |
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—

Fomentar, especialmente en las PYME, la incorporación efectiva de nuevos procedimientos de comercio electrónico y la adopción de nuevos modelos empresariales que exploten el potencial de las TIC.

TIC para los ciudadanos y cualificación en TIC

| — | Fomentar el acceso a los servicios de TIC y su disponibilidad para todos, entre otros medios a través de una mejor comprensión de sus beneficios potenciales y el impulso de la mejora continua de tecnologías de utilización sencilla, contribuyendo con ello, entre otras cosas, a colmar la brecha digital. |
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Fomentar el acceso a los servicios de TIC y su disponibilidad para todos, entre otros medios a través de una mejor comprensión de sus beneficios potenciales y el impulso de la mejora continua de tecnologías de utilización sencilla, contribuyendo con ello, entre otras cosas, a colmar la brecha digital.

| — | Favorecer medidas como la formación electrónica que mejoren las competencias electrónicas de todos, dirigidas en particular a la población que envejece, a los distintos sexos y a las personas de todos los orígenes étnicos y sociales, para permitirles aprovechar plenamente las oportunidades que les brinda la sociedad de la información. |
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—

Favorecer medidas como la formación electrónica que mejoren las competencias electrónicas de todos, dirigidas en particular a la población que envejece, a los distintos sexos y a las personas de todos los orígenes étnicos y sociales, para permitirles aprovechar plenamente las oportunidades que les brinda la sociedad de la información.

| — | Aumentar la integración de las TIC en el lugar de trabajo de maneras que eleven la productividad y la calidad de éste, y reforzar el componente de TIC en el proceso de formación. |
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Aumentar la integración de las TIC en el lugar de trabajo de maneras que eleven la productividad y la calidad de éste, y reforzar el componente de TIC en el proceso de formación.

| — | Hallar respuestas estratégicas a la deslocalización, entre otros medios fomentando la adaptabilidad de los trabajadores y de las empresas y la flexibilidad combinada con seguridad en el mercado de trabajo. |
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Hallar respuestas estratégicas a la deslocalización, entre otros medios fomentando la adaptabilidad de los trabajadores y de las empresas y la flexibilidad combinada con seguridad en el mercado de trabajo.

TIC para los servicios públicos

| — | Acordar y aplicar —a escala europea si procede— planteamientos integrados sobre la utilización de aplicaciones de administración electrónica, especialmente mediante el fomento de la cooperación y el intercambio de las prácticas más idóneas. |
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Acordar y aplicar —a escala europea si procede— planteamientos integrados sobre la utilización de aplicaciones de administración electrónica, especialmente mediante el fomento de la cooperación y el intercambio de las prácticas más idóneas.

| — | Definición de un planteamiento global –atendiendo a la necesidad de adaptación organizativa– para explotar el potencial de las TIC con miras a conseguir un sector público de mayor rendimiento y eficiencia, al tiempo que se ajustan los servicios en línea a las necesidades de las empresas y de los ciudadanos y se reducen las cargas administrativas, teniendo en cuenta, en particular, la necesidad de servicios transfronterizos europeos. |
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Definición de un planteamiento global –atendiendo a la necesidad de adaptación organizativa– para explotar el potencial de las TIC con miras a conseguir un sector público de mayor rendimiento y eficiencia, al tiempo que se ajustan los servicios en línea a las necesidades de las empresas y de los ciudadanos y se reducen las cargas administrativas, teniendo en cuenta, en particular, la necesidad de servicios transfronterizos europeos.

| — | Desarrollar servicios a escala europea en el ámbito de la sanidad electrónica, haciendo especial hincapié en las cuestiones de normalización e interoperabilidad para optimar la dispensación de tratamiento y atención al paciente. |
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Desarrollar servicios a escala europea en el ámbito de la sanidad electrónica, haciendo especial hincapié en las cuestiones de normalización e interoperabilidad para optimar la dispensación de tratamiento y atención al paciente.

Contenidos y desarrollo de productos y servicios

| — | Fomentar el desarrollo y la difusión de contenidos interesantes y creativos, por ejemplo propiciando la reutilización de información del sector público. |
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Fomentar el desarrollo y la difusión de contenidos interesantes y creativos, por ejemplo propiciando la reutilización de información del sector público.

| — | Eliminar –si procede– los obstáculos a la disponibilidad de contenidos en diversas plataformas, fomentando, por ejemplo, la búsqueda de soluciones prácticas en materia de gestión de derechos digitales. |
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Eliminar –si procede– los obstáculos a la disponibilidad de contenidos en diversas plataformas, fomentando, por ejemplo, la búsqueda de soluciones prácticas en materia de gestión de derechos digitales.

| — | Respaldar el surgimiento de nuevos servicios en el mercado interior ampliado potenciando un entorno regulador favorable que tenga en cuenta la evolución de los acontecimientos, por ejemplo de la innovación tecnológica. |
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Respaldar el surgimiento de nuevos servicios en el mercado interior ampliado potenciando un entorno regulador favorable que tenga en cuenta la evolución de los acontecimientos, por ejemplo de la innovación tecnológica.

| — | Crear –en respuesta al volumen creciente de aplicaciones basadas en TIC– un entorno favorable para que la industria y el sector público desarrollen (tanto en Europa como en todo el mundo) soluciones eficaces e interoperables, especialmente para los pagos electrónicos, la autenticación, la comprobación de identidad y la seguridad. |
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Crear –en respuesta al volumen creciente de aplicaciones basadas en TIC– un entorno favorable para que la industria y el sector público desarrollen (tanto en Europa como en todo el mundo) soluciones eficaces e interoperables, especialmente para los pagos electrónicos, la autenticación, la comprobación de identidad y la seguridad.

Constitución de redes

| — | Garantizar un entorno regulador coherente y eficaz para las comunicaciones electrónicas que estimule la competencia, la inversión y la innovación. |
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Garantizar un entorno regulador coherente y eficaz para las comunicaciones electrónicas que estimule la competencia, la inversión y la innovación.

| — | Apoyar el desarrollo y la utilización de normas abiertas y propiciar la interoperabilidad de redes y servicios. |
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Apoyar el desarrollo y la utilización de normas abiertas y propiciar la interoperabilidad de redes y servicios.

| — | Respaldar, teniendo presente el principio de la neutralidad tecnológica, el uso más extendido y la disponibilidad de servicios de banda ancha, especialmente mediante el fomento de plataformas competidoras y de redes interoperables. |
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Respaldar, teniendo presente el principio de la neutralidad tecnológica, el uso más extendido y la disponibilidad de servicios de banda ancha, especialmente mediante el fomento de plataformas competidoras y de redes interoperables.

| — | Continuar la evaluación de diversos modelos de gestión del espectro electromagnético con vistas a su utilización más flexible y eficiente a escala europea y mundial, atendiendo al desarrollo de tecnologías nuevas e innovadoras y a las metodologías que aprovechan los mecanismos del mercado. |
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Continuar la evaluación de diversos modelos de gestión del espectro electromagnético con vistas a su utilización más flexible y eficiente a escala europea y mundial, atendiendo al desarrollo de tecnologías nuevas e innovadoras y a las metodologías que aprovechan los mecanismos del mercado.

Confianza y seguridad

| — | Elaborar un planteamiento coherente que trate todas las cuestiones pertinentes relacionadas con la confianza, a fin de potenciar hábitos de seguridad de las redes y de la información para fomentar unas comunicaciones electrónicas fiables y eficaces y contribuir al desarrollo de servicios transeuropeos seguros. |
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Elaborar un planteamiento coherente que trate todas las cuestiones pertinentes relacionadas con la confianza, a fin de potenciar hábitos de seguridad de las redes y de la información para fomentar unas comunicaciones electrónicas fiables y eficaces y contribuir al desarrollo de servicios transeuropeos seguros.

| — | Plantearse medidas de lucha contra los contenidos ilícitos, nocivos y no solicitados en Internet, especialmente por lo que respecta a los niños, así como contra el «spam» (bombardeo publicitario), en cooperación con todas las partes interesadas (incluso en el plano internacional). |
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Plantearse medidas de lucha contra los contenidos ilícitos, nocivos y no solicitados en Internet, especialmente por lo que respecta a los niños, así como contra el «spam» (bombardeo publicitario), en cooperación con todas las partes interesadas (incluso en el plano internacional).

| — | Garantizar un nivel apropiado de seguridad de las redes y de la información en relación con la incorporación y utilización de servicios nuevos y con el funcionamiento correcto de otras infraestructuras dependientes de las TIC, teniendo en cuenta los aspectos relativos a la confianza y la intimidad. |
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Garantizar un nivel apropiado de seguridad de las redes y de la información en relación con la incorporación y utilización de servicios nuevos y con el funcionamiento correcto de otras infraestructuras dependientes de las TIC, teniendo en cuenta los aspectos relativos a la confianza y la intimidad.

INVITA A LOS ESTADOS MIEMBROS a que examinen activamente y a que mejoren sus orientaciones estratégicas y sus esfuerzos de realización para contribuir a la elaboración de un nuevo Programa para la sociedad de la información en el horizonte de 2010.

INVITA A LA COMISIÓN

| 1. | a mantener el seguimiento del marco regulador a la luz de la evolución actual y futura de la tecnología y del mercado, y a presentar propuestas, cuando sea preciso, para mantener un entorno regulador adecuado que facilite una competencia eficiente y dé lugar a una mayor inversión, a una mayor innovación, a nuevos servicios y a precios más bajos; |
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1.

a mantener el seguimiento del marco regulador a la luz de la evolución actual y futura de la tecnología y del mercado, y a presentar propuestas, cuando sea preciso, para mantener un entorno regulador adecuado que facilite una competencia eficiente y dé lugar a una mayor inversión, a una mayor innovación, a nuevos servicios y a precios más bajos;

| 2. | a analizar la competitividad del sector de TIC y a iniciar –teniendo presente el impacto de las TIC en la economía europea– los trabajos preparatorios de la actuación consecutiva al Plan de Acción e-Europa 2005, como parte importante del nuevo Programa para la sociedad de la información después de 2005; |
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2.

a analizar la competitividad del sector de TIC y a iniciar –teniendo presente el impacto de las TIC en la economía europea– los trabajos preparatorios de la actuación consecutiva al Plan de Acción e-Europa 2005, como parte importante del nuevo Programa para la sociedad de la información después de 2005;

| 3. | a reconocer la importancia de las TIC en su futura propuesta relativa al siguiente Programa marco de investigación. |
| --- | --- |

3.

a reconocer la importancia de las TIC en su futura propuesta relativa al siguiente Programa marco de investigación.

INVITA A LA INDUSTRIA a que siga presentando al mercado nuevas aplicaciones y servicios innovadores de TIC y a que produzca nuevos contenidos atractivos, lo que redundará, entre otras cosas, en beneficio de la diversidad cultural y del multilingüismo europeos.

INVITA A TODAS LAS PARTES INTERESADAS a que sigan integrando las TIC en sus actividades respectivas, para que puedan cosechar todas las ventajas de las TIC.

ELEVA la presente Resolución como contribución al debate sobre la revisión a medio plazo de la estrategia de Lisboa en el Consejo Europeo de primavera de 2005.

---

Comisión

| 12.3.2005 | ES | Diario Oficial de la Unión Europea | C 62/4 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.3.2005

ES

Diario Oficial de la Unión Europea

C 62/4

---

Tipo de cambio del euro (1)

11 de marzo de 2005

(2005/C 62/02)

1 euro=

| | Moneda | Tipo de cambio |
| --- | --- | --- |
| USD | dólar estadounidense | 1,3416 |
| JPY | yen japonés | 139,67 |
| DKK | corona danesa | 7,4462 |
| GBP | libra esterlina | 0,69865 |
| SEK | corona sueca | 9,0630 |
| CHF | franco suizo | 1,5500 |
| ISK | corona islandesa | 79,27 |
| NOK | corona noruega | 8,177 |
| BGN | lev búlgaro | 1,9559 |
| CYP | libra chipriota | 0,5825 |
| CZK | corona checa | 29,475 |
| EEK | corona estonia | 15,6466 |
| HUF | forint húngaro | 243,20 |
| LTL | litas lituana | 3,4528 |
| LVL | lats letón | 0,6960 |
| MTL | lira maltesa | 0,4330 |
| PLN | zloty polaco | 3,9519 |
| ROL | leu rumano | 35 885 |
| SIT | tólar esloveno | 239,72 |
| SKK | corona eslovaca | 37,649 |
| TRY | lira turca | 1,7002 |
| AUD | dólar australiano | 1,6944 |
| CAD | dólar canadiense | 1,6176 |
| HKD | dólar de Hong Kong | 10,4638 |
| NZD | dólar neozelandés | 1,8173 |
| SGD | dólar de Singapur | 2,1733 |
| KRW | won de Corea del Sur | 1 342,14 |
| ZAR | rand sudafricano | 7,8354 |

Moneda

Tipo de cambio

USD

dólar estadounidense

1,3416

JPY

yen japonés

139,67

DKK

corona danesa

7,4462

GBP

libra esterlina

0,69865

SEK

corona sueca

9,0630

CHF

franco suizo

1,5500

ISK

corona islandesa

79,27

NOK

corona noruega

8,177

BGN

lev búlgaro

1,9559

CYP

libra chipriota

0,5825

CZK

corona checa

29,475

EEK

corona estonia

15,6466

HUF

forint húngaro

243,20

LTL

litas lituana

3,4528

LVL

lats letón

0,6960

MTL

lira maltesa

0,4330

PLN

zloty polaco

3,9519

ROL

leu rumano

35 885

SIT

tólar esloveno

239,72

SKK

corona eslovaca

37,649

TRY

lira turca

1,7002

AUD

dólar australiano

1,6944

CAD

dólar canadiense

1,6176

HKD

dólar de Hong Kong

10,4638

NZD

dólar neozelandés

1,8173

SGD

dólar de Singapur

2,1733

KRW

won de Corea del Sur

1 342,14

ZAR

rand sudafricano

7,8354

---

(1)

Fuente: tipo de cambio de referencia publicado por el Banco Central Europeo.

---

| 12.3.2005 | ES | Diario Oficial de la Unión Europea | C 62/5 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.3.2005

ES

Diario Oficial de la Unión Europea

C 62/5

---

Notificación previa de una operación de concentración

(Caso no COMP/M.3745 — Severstal/Lucchini)

Caso susceptible de ser tratado por procedimiento simplificado

(2005/C 62/03)

(Texto pertinente a los fines del EEE)

| 1. | Con fecha 4 de marzo de 2005 y de conformidad con lo dispuesto en el artículo 4 del Reglamento (CE) no 139/2004 del Consejo (1) la Comisión recibió notificación de un proyecto de concentración por el que el Grupo ZAO Severstal («Severstal», Rusia), adquiere el control, a efectos de lo dispuesto en la letra b) del apartado 1 del artículo 3 del Reglamento del Consejo, de la totalidad de la empresa Lucchini SpA («Lucchini», Italia), a través de la adquisición de acciones. |
| --- | --- |

1.

Con fecha 4 de marzo de 2005 y de conformidad con lo dispuesto en el artículo 4 del Reglamento (CE) no 139/2004 del Consejo (1) la Comisión recibió notificación de un proyecto de concentración por el que el Grupo ZAO Severstal («Severstal», Rusia), adquiere el control, a efectos de lo dispuesto en la letra b) del apartado 1 del artículo 3 del Reglamento del Consejo, de la totalidad de la empresa Lucchini SpA («Lucchini», Italia), a través de la adquisición de acciones.

| 2. | Ámbito de actividad de las empresas afectadas:






  — | Severstal: principalmente, producción y distribución de productos metalúrgicos, así como otras actividades como banca, seguros y otros, |
| --- | --- | --- |

2.

Ámbito de actividad de las empresas afectadas:

—

Severstal: principalmente, producción y distribución de productos metalúrgicos, así como otras actividades como banca, seguros y otros,

| — | Lucchini: producción y venta de productos de acero. |
| --- | --- |

—

Lucchini: producción y venta de productos de acero.

| 3. | Tras haber realizado un examen preliminar, la Comisión considera que la transacción notificada podría entrar en el ámbito de aplicación del Reglamento (CE) no 139/2004. No obstante, se reserva la posibilidad de tomar una decisión definitiva sobre este punto. De conformidad con la Comunicación de la Comisión sobre el procedimiento simplificado para tramitar determinadas operaciones de concentración con arreglo al Reglamento (CE) no 139/2004 del Consejo (2) se hace notar que este caso es susceptible de ser tratado por el procedimiento establecido en dicha Comunicación. |
| --- | --- |

3.

Tras haber realizado un examen preliminar, la Comisión considera que la transacción notificada podría entrar en el ámbito de aplicación del Reglamento (CE) no 139/2004. No obstante, se reserva la posibilidad de tomar una decisión definitiva sobre este punto. De conformidad con la Comunicación de la Comisión sobre el procedimiento simplificado para tramitar determinadas operaciones de concentración con arreglo al Reglamento (CE) no 139/2004 del Consejo (2) se hace notar que este caso es susceptible de ser tratado por el procedimiento establecido en dicha Comunicación.

| 4. | La Comisión insta a terceros interesados a que le presenten sus observaciones eventuales con respecto a la propuesta de concentración.
  Las observaciones deberán obrar en poder de la Comisión en un plazo máximo de diez días naturales a contar desde el día siguiente a la fecha de esta publicación. Las observaciones pueden ser enviadas a la Comisión por fax [(32-2) 296 43 01 o 296 72 44] o por correo, referencia no COMP/M.3745 — Severstal/Lucchini, a la siguiente dirección:





  Comisión Europea |
| --- | --- |
| Dirección General de Competencia |
| Registro de operaciones de concentración |
| J-70 |
| B-1049 Bruselas |

4.

La Comisión insta a terceros interesados a que le presenten sus observaciones eventuales con respecto a la propuesta de concentración.

Las observaciones deberán obrar en poder de la Comisión en un plazo máximo de diez días naturales a contar desde el día siguiente a la fecha de esta publicación. Las observaciones pueden ser enviadas a la Comisión por fax [(32-2) 296 43 01 o 296 72 44] o por correo, referencia no COMP/M.3745 — Severstal/Lucchini, a la siguiente dirección:

Comisión Europea

Dirección General de Competencia

Registro de operaciones de concentración

J-70

B-1049 Bruselas

---

(1)  DO L 24 de 29.1.2004, p. 1.

(2)  Disponible en DG COMP website:

http://europa.eu.int/comm/competition/mergers/legislation/consultation/simplified_tru.pdf.

---

| 12.3.2005 | ES | Diario Oficial de la Unión Europea | C 62/6 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.3.2005

ES

Diario Oficial de la Unión Europea

C 62/6

---

Autorización de las ayudas estatales en el marco de las disposiciones de los artículos 87 y 88 del Tratado CE

Casos con respecto a los cuales la Comisión no presenta objeciones

(2005/C 62/04)

(Texto pertinente a efectos del EEE)

Fecha de la decisión:

Estado miembro: Italia

Ayuda no: N 584/2003

Denominación: ampliación del plazo de entrega de 2 buques de transporte rodado TP (números C.209 y C.210)

Objetivo: construcción naval

Fundamento jurídico: Articolo 2 della Legge n. 522 del 28.12.1999

Intensidad o importe de la ayuda: 9 %

Otros datos: El texto de la Decisión en la lengua o lenguas auténticas, suprimidos los datos confidenciales, se encuentra en:

http://europa.eu.int/comm/secretariat_general/sgb/state_aids

---

| 12.3.2005 | ES | Diario Oficial de la Unión Europea | C 62/7 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.3.2005

ES

Diario Oficial de la Unión Europea

C 62/7

---

Comunicación del Gobierno de Malta, de 21 de enero de 2005, relativa a la Directiva 94/22/CE del Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo, de 30 de mayo de 1994, sobre las condiciones para la concesión y el ejercicio de las autorizaciones de prospección, exploración y producción de hidrocarburos (1)

(2005/C 62/05)

(Texto pertinente a efectos del EEE)

De conformidad con el artículo 10 de la Directiva 94/22/CE del Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo, de 30 de mayo de 1994, sobre las condiciones para la concesión y el ejercicio de las autorizaciones de prospección, exploración y producción de hidrocarburos, la República de Malta comunica a la Comisión Europea que la única autoridad competente es el Ministro de Recursos e Infraestructuras (Minister for Resources and Infrastructure) de la República de Malta, Block B, Floriana CMR 02, Malta.

Con arreglo al artículo 5, apartado 1, de la Directiva 94/22/CE, el Ministro de Recursos e Infraestructuras de la República de Malta notifica que los criterios aplicados para la concesión de las autorizaciones son los siguientes:

| a) | los recursos financieros del solicitante; |
| --- | --- |

a)

los recursos financieros del solicitante;

| b) | la capacidad técnica y la experiencia del solicitante; |
| --- | --- |

b)

la capacidad técnica y la experiencia del solicitante;

| c) | el programa de trabajo propuesto por el solicitante; |
| --- | --- |

c)

el programa de trabajo propuesto por el solicitante;

| d) | si procede, cualquier prestación anterior del solicitante dentro de autorizaciones precedentes; y, |
| --- | --- |

d)

si procede, cualquier prestación anterior del solicitante dentro de autorizaciones precedentes; y,

| e) | en caso de que la autorización se ponga en venta, el precio que la entidad esté dispuesta a pagar para obtener la autorización. |
| --- | --- |

e)

en caso de que la autorización se ponga en venta, el precio que la entidad esté dispuesta a pagar para obtener la autorización.

Con arreglo al artículo 5, apartado 2, de la Directiva 94/22/CE, la información sobre las condiciones y requisitos relativos al ejercicio o al cese de la actividad, aplicables a cada tipo de autorización figura en el modelo ESA (2001) y en el modelo PSC (2001), publicados por el Departamento de Exploración Petrolífera (Oil Exploration Department), Ministerio de Recursos e Infraestructuras, Block B, Floriana CMR 02, Malta. La correspondiente información no es aplicable necesariamente al caso previsto en el artículo 3, apartado 2, letra a), de la Directiva 94/22/CE.

---

(1)  DO L 164 de 30.6.1994, p. 3.

---

| 12.3.2005 | ES | Diario Oficial de la Unión Europea | C 62/8 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.3.2005

ES

Diario Oficial de la Unión Europea

C 62/8

---

Anuncio del Gobierno de Malta, de 21 de enero de 2005, relativo a la Directiva 94/22/CE del Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo, de 30 de mayo de 1994, sobre las condiciones para la concesión y el ejercicio de las autorizaciones de prospección, exploración y producción de hidrocarburos (1)

(2005/C 62/06)

(Texto pertinente a efectos del EEE)

De conformidad con el artículo 3, apartado 3, de la Directiva 94/22/CE del Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo, de 30 de mayo de 1994, sobre las condiciones para la concesión y el ejercicio de las autorizaciones de prospección, exploración y producción de hidrocarburos, el Ministro de Recursos e Infraestructuras (Minister for Resources and Infrastructure) de la República de Malta comunica que las siguientes zonas (o parte de las mismas) mar adentro de las costas de Malta se hallan disponibles de forma permanente a efectos de autorización ya sea en concepto de Licencia de Exploración o de Licencia de Exploración y Producción:

| (i) | Zona 1 |
| --- | --- |

(i)

Zona 1

| (ii) | Zona 3 (a excepción de los Bloques abajo indicados) |
| --- | --- |

(ii)

Zona 3 (a excepción de los Bloques abajo indicados)

| (iii) | Zona 4 (a excepción de los Bloques abajo indicados) |
| --- | --- |

(iii)

Zona 4 (a excepción de los Bloques abajo indicados)

| (iv) | Zona 6 |
| --- | --- |

(iv)

Zona 6

Las siguientes Zonas y Bloques ya han sido objeto de una autorización concedida con anterioridad al 1 de mayo de 2004 por lo que no están disponibles hasta nueva notificación:

| (i) | Zona 2 |
| --- | --- |

(i)

Zona 2

| (ii) | Bloques 4 y 5 de la Zona 3 |
| --- | --- |

(ii)

Bloques 4 y 5 de la Zona 3

| (iii) | Bloque 3 de la Zona 4 |
| --- | --- |

(iii)

Bloque 3 de la Zona 4

| (iv) | Zona 5 |
| --- | --- |

(iv)

Zona 5

| (v) | Zona 7 |
| --- | --- |

(v)

Zona 7

Las entidades solicitantes deberán aportar la información que se requiere en el formulario publicado en los Reglamentos denominados Petroleum (Production) Regulations, 2001 (Legal Notice 320 of 2001, 1st December 2001).

Las Zonas y Bloques disponibles para la concesión de autorizaciones así como las Zonas y Bloques ya sujetos a autorización, están delimitados por coordenadas geográficas que pueden obtenerse, junto con otras informaciones, de la siguiente dirección: Oil Exploration Department, Ministry for Resources and Infrastructure, Block B, Floriana CMR 02, Malta, teléfono: (356) 21 237921.

---

(1)  DO L 164 de 30.6.1994, p. 3.

---

| 12.3.2005 | ES | Diario Oficial de la Unión Europea | C 62/9 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.3.2005

ES

Diario Oficial de la Unión Europea

C 62/9

---

Notificación previa de una operación de concentración

(Caso no COMP/M.3743 — DuPont/DDE)

Caso susceptible de ser tratado por procedimiento simplificado

(2005/C 62/07)

(Texto pertinente a los fines del EEE)

| 1. | Con fecha 4 de marzo de 2005 y de conformidad con lo dispuesto en el artículo 4 y siguiendo un proceso de reenvío conforme al apartado 5 del artículo 4 del Reglamento (CE) no 139/2004 del Consejo (1) la Comisión recibió notificación de un proyecto de concentración por el que la empresa E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company («DuPont», Estados Unidos) adquieren el control, a efectos de lo dispuesto en la letra b) del apartado 1 del artículo 3 del citado Reglamento, de partes de las empresa DuPont Dow Elastomers L.L.C. («DDE», Estados Unidos) a través de adquisición de acciones. |
| --- | --- |

1.

Con fecha 4 de marzo de 2005 y de conformidad con lo dispuesto en el artículo 4 y siguiendo un proceso de reenvío conforme al apartado 5 del artículo 4 del Reglamento (CE) no 139/2004 del Consejo (1) la Comisión recibió notificación de un proyecto de concentración por el que la empresa E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company («DuPont», Estados Unidos) adquieren el control, a efectos de lo dispuesto en la letra b) del apartado 1 del artículo 3 del citado Reglamento, de partes de las empresa DuPont Dow Elastomers L.L.C. («DDE», Estados Unidos) a través de adquisición de acciones.

| 2. | Ámbito de actividad de las empresas afectadas:






  — | DuPont: empresa multinacional diversificada en varios sectores tales como agricultura, nutrición, electrónica, comunicaciones, seguridad y protección, hogar y construcción y transporte, |
| --- | --- | --- |

2.

Ámbito de actividad de las empresas afectadas:

—

DuPont: empresa multinacional diversificada en varios sectores tales como agricultura, nutrición, electrónica, comunicaciones, seguridad y protección, hogar y construcción y transporte,

| — | DDE: investigación, desarrollo, producción y comercialización de elastómeros. |
| --- | --- |

—

DDE: investigación, desarrollo, producción y comercialización de elastómeros.

| 3. | Tras haber realizado un examen preliminar, la Comisión considera que la transacción notificada podría entrar en el ámbito de aplicación del Reglamento (CE) no 139/2004. No obstante, se reserva la posibilidad de tomar una decisión definitiva sobre este punto. De conformidad con la Comunicación de la Comisión sobre el procedimiento simplificado para tramitar determinadas operaciones de concentración con arreglo al Reglamento (CE) no 139/2004 del Consejo (2) se hace notar que este caso es susceptible de ser tratado por el procedimiento establecido en dicha Comunicación. |
| --- | --- |

3.

Tras haber realizado un examen preliminar, la Comisión considera que la transacción notificada podría entrar en el ámbito de aplicación del Reglamento (CE) no 139/2004. No obstante, se reserva la posibilidad de tomar una decisión definitiva sobre este punto. De conformidad con la Comunicación de la Comisión sobre el procedimiento simplificado para tramitar determinadas operaciones de concentración con arreglo al Reglamento (CE) no 139/2004 del Consejo (2) se hace notar que este caso es susceptible de ser tratado por el procedimiento establecido en dicha Comunicación.

| 4. | La Comisión insta a terceros interesados a que le presenten sus observaciones eventuales con respecto a la propuesta de concentración.
  Las observaciones deberán obrar en poder de la Comisión en un plazo máximo de diez días naturales a contar desde el día siguiente a la fecha de esta publicación. Las observaciones pueden ser enviadas a la Comisión por fax [(32-2) 296 43 01 o 296 72 44] o por correo, referencia no COMP/M.3743 — DuPont/DDE, a la siguiente dirección:





  Comisión Europea |
| --- | --- |
| Dirección General de Competencia |
| Registro de operaciones de concentración |
| J-70 |
| B-1049 Bruselas |

4.

La Comisión insta a terceros interesados a que le presenten sus observaciones eventuales con respecto a la propuesta de concentración.

Las observaciones deberán obrar en poder de la Comisión en un plazo máximo de diez días naturales a contar desde el día siguiente a la fecha de esta publicación. Las observaciones pueden ser enviadas a la Comisión por fax [(32-2) 296 43 01 o 296 72 44] o por correo, referencia no COMP/M.3743 — DuPont/DDE, a la siguiente dirección:

Comisión Europea

Dirección General de Competencia

Registro de operaciones de concentración

J-70

B-1049 Bruselas

---

(1)  DO L 24 de 29.1.2004, p. 1.

(2)  Disponible en DG COMP website:

http://europa.eu.int/comm/competition/mergers/legislation/consultation/simplified_tru.pdf.

---

| 12.3.2005 | ES | Diario Oficial de la Unión Europea | C 62/10 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.3.2005

ES

Diario Oficial de la Unión Europea

C 62/10

---

AYUDAS ESTATALES — REINO UNIDO

Ayuda estatal no C 4/2005 / (ex NN 57/2004)

Impuesto sobre infraestructuras de telecomunicaciones

Invitación a presentar observaciones en aplicación del artículo 88, apartado 2 del Tratado CE

(2005/C 62/08)

(Texto pertinente a efectos del EEE)

Por carta de 19 de enero de 2005, reproducida en la versión lingüística auténtica en las páginas siguiente al presente resumen, la Comisión notificó el Reino Unido su decisión de incoar el procedimiento previsto en el artículo 88, apartado 2 del Tratado CE en relación con la medida antes citada.

Las partes interesadas podrán presentar sus observaciones sobre la medida respecto de la cual la Comisión ha incoado el procedimiento en un plazo de un mes a partir de la fecha de publicación del presente resumen y de la carta que figura a continuación, enviándolas a:

| Comisión Europea |
| --- |
| Dirección General de Competencia |
| Registro de Ayudas estatales |
| B-1049 Bruselas |
| Fax: (32-2) 296 12 42 |

Comisión Europea

Dirección General de Competencia

Registro de Ayudas estatales

B-1049 Bruselas

Fax: (32-2) 296 12 42

Dichas observaciones serán comunicadas al Reino Unido. La parte interesada que presente observaciones podrá solicitar por escrito, exponiendo los motivos de su solicitud, que su identidad sea tratada confidencialmente.

TEXTO DEL RESUMEN

Procedimiento

En febrero de 2004 Vtesse Networks Ltd, un operador de telecomunicaciones británico, presentó una denuncia sobre una supuesta ayuda estatal en forma de bonificación fiscal a favor de British Telecom Plc («BT»), el operador de telecomunicaciones preexistente. Basándose en esta denuncia, la Comisión solicitó información a las autoridades británicas, recibiendo una respuesta en abril de 2004.

Descripción de la medida respecto de la cual la Comisión incoa el procedimiento

La medida se refiere a un impuesto británico sobre bienes inmuebles que grava las propiedades empresariales, incluidas las infraestructuras de telecomunicaciones. La normativa básica que rige dicho régimen fiscal en Inglaterra y el País de Gales es la Ley de 1988 sobre Financiación del Régimen Local. Esta Ley prevé una evaluación para determinar el valor de los activos, que constituye la base imponible a la que se aplica un tipo impositivo para calcular la deuda tributaria. El tipo impositivo se fija anualmente y es idéntico para todos los operadores de telecomunicaciones. Sin embargo, la base imponible de cada operador la calcula un órgano ejecutivo del Gobierno central, la Valuation Office Agency («VOA»), aplicando diversos métodos de evaluación, y puede recurrirse. La VOA aplica un determinado método de evaluación de activos a BT y a Kingston Communications (el titular preexistente en la región de Hull) y otro diferente al denunciante y a otros proveedores de telecomunicaciones competidores. La aplicación de varios métodos parece dar como resultado una presión fiscal diferente y desproporcionada entre las empresas que compiten en el mercado de las telecomunicaciones.

Evaluación

De acuerdo con la Comunicación de la Comisión relativa a la aplicación de las normas sobre ayudas estatales a las medidas relacionadas con la fiscalidad directa de las empresas (DO C 384 de 10.12.1998, p. 3), las ventajas fiscales circunscritas a determinadas formas de empresa, al favorecer a determinadas empresas o producciones, pueden constituir ayudas estatales. Una reducción de la base impositiva, y por lo tanto del nivel impositivo, que les corresponde a BT y Kingston, confiere a estas empresas una ventaja selectiva al reducir los costes que normalmente deberían soportar en el ejercicio de su actividad empresarial. El mercado británico de las telecomunicaciones se ha liberalizado por lo que las ventajas concedidas a BT y Kingston Communications pueden falsear la competencia y tener un efecto sobre los intercambios comerciales. Así pues, parece que se dan las condiciones para calificar a la medida en cuestión de ayuda estatal de conformidad con el artículo 87, apartado 1 del Tratado CE.

Por consiguiente, en la fase actual del procedimiento, la Comisión ha llegado a la conclusión de que las autoridades británicas pueden haber concedido a BT y Kingston Communications una ayuda estatal en el sentido del artículo 87, apartado 1 del Tratado CE. Si bien es verdad que la existencia de ayuda puede excluirse cuando el trato diferenciado está justificado por la naturaleza o la economía general del sistema, en el presente caso la Comisión pone en duda que ello pueda justificarse sobre la base de los elementos intrínsecos y la lógica inherente al sistema impositivo.

Las excepciones previstas en el artículo 87, apartados 2 y 3 del Tratado CE no parecen aplicables. Dadas sus dudas sobre la compatibilidad de la ayuda con el Tratado CE, la Comisión ha decidido incoar el procedimiento de investigación formal contemplado en el artículo 88, apartado 2 del Tratado CE. De conformidad con el artículo 14 del Reglamento (CE) no 659/1999 del Consejo, toda ayuda concedida ilegalmente podrá ser reclamada a su beneficiario.

TEXTO DE LA CARTA

| «1. | The Commission wishes to inform the United Kingdom that, having examined the information supplied by your authorities in relation to the measure referred to above, it has decided to initiate the procedure laid down in Article 88(2) of the EC Treaty. |
| --- | --- |

«1.

The Commission wishes to inform the United Kingdom that, having examined the information supplied by your authorities in relation to the measure referred to above, it has decided to initiate the procedure laid down in Article 88(2) of the EC Treaty.

1.   PROCEDURE

| 2. | On 17 February 2004 (A/31115) the Commission registered a complaint from Vtesse Networks Ltd (“Vtesse”), a UK telecommunications operator, concerning alleged preferential tax treatment in favour of British Telecom plc (“BT”), the incumbent telecommunications operator. Additional information was received from the complainant on 23 March 2004, 29 March 2004, 30 March 2004, 30 June 2004, 1 July 2004, 27 July 2004 and 11 October 2004. A meeting with the complainant was held on 30 June 2004 to further clarify the technical details of the information submitted. |
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2.

On 17 February 2004 (A/31115) the Commission registered a complaint from Vtesse Networks Ltd (“Vtesse”), a UK telecommunications operator, concerning alleged preferential tax treatment in favour of British Telecom plc (“BT”), the incumbent telecommunications operator. Additional information was received from the complainant on 23 March 2004, 29 March 2004, 30 March 2004, 30 June 2004, 1 July 2004, 27 July 2004 and 11 October 2004. A meeting with the complainant was held on 30 June 2004 to further clarify the technical details of the information submitted.

| 3. | The Commission also received on 28 April 2004 (A/33044) a letter from the UK Competitive Telecommunications Association (“UKCTA”), a trade association representing the interests of fixed-line telecommunications companies competing with BT, substantiating some of the issues brought forward by the complaint. |
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3.

The Commission also received on 28 April 2004 (A/33044) a letter from the UK Competitive Telecommunications Association (“UKCTA”), a trade association representing the interests of fixed-line telecommunications companies competing with BT, substantiating some of the issues brought forward by the complaint.

| 4. | On 16 March 2004 (D/51920) the Commission sent a request for information to the UK, which was answered on 23 April 2004 (A/32924). The UK authorities submitted additional information on 11 October 2004 (A/37753). |
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4.

On 16 March 2004 (D/51920) the Commission sent a request for information to the UK, which was answered on 23 April 2004 (A/32924). The UK authorities submitted additional information on 11 October 2004 (A/37753).

| 5. | Finally, the Commission has received letters dated 19 November 2004 (A/38972) and 30 November 2004 (A/39285) from BT submitting their views on the issue. |
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5.

Finally, the Commission has received letters dated 19 November 2004 (A/38972) and 30 November 2004 (A/39285) from BT submitting their views on the issue.

2.   BACKGROUND

2.1.   Rating system

| 6. | “Business rates” are a UK property tax levied on non-domestic property (1). Its aim is to contribute towards the cost of services provided by Local Authorities (2). The primary regulation on non-domestic rating in England and Wales is the Local Government Finance Act (“LGFA”) 1988 (3). In addition, a number of statutory instruments govern the implementation of the system. |
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6.

“Business rates” are a UK property tax levied on non-domestic property (1). Its aim is to contribute towards the cost of services provided by Local Authorities (2). The primary regulation on non-domestic rating in England and Wales is the Local Government Finance Act (“LGFA”) 1988 (3). In addition, a number of statutory instruments govern the implementation of the system.

| 7. | Most properties are entered on so-called “Local Rating Lists”, i.e. the rating lists of the authorities in whose territory the properties are located. However, since properties such as telecommunications infrastructure extend beyond the boundaries of a single local authority, their valuations are typically entered on the so-called “Central Rating List”, which exists for England and Wales (4). The rate payments made are then redistributed to the local authorities in proportion to their populations. |
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7.

Most properties are entered on so-called “Local Rating Lists”, i.e. the rating lists of the authorities in whose territory the properties are located. However, since properties such as telecommunications infrastructure extend beyond the boundaries of a single local authority, their valuations are typically entered on the so-called “Central Rating List”, which exists for England and Wales (4). The rate payments made are then redistributed to the local authorities in proportion to their populations.

| 8. | The tax rate, the so called “multiplier”, which applies equally to all business properties, is determined annually by the Secretary of State (5) and applies equally to all operators. It was set at 44,4 % of the rateable hereditament (6) for the fiscal year 2003/4 (7). |
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8.

The tax rate, the so called “multiplier”, which applies equally to all business properties, is determined annually by the Secretary of State (5) and applies equally to all operators. It was set at 44,4 % of the rateable hereditament (6) for the fiscal year 2003/4 (7).

| 9. | The base of this tax, the so called “rateable values” in England and Wales, are determined by the Valuation Office Agency (“VOA”), an executive agency of the Inland Revenue, part of central government (8). The VOA is responsible for valuing the assets and including them on the “Rating Lists”. Revaluations are held every five years, so the rateable values determined on 1 April 1998 (so called “antecedent valuation date”) apply to the current five year period of 2000-05. Valuations completed on 1 April 2003 will apply for the next period of 2005-10 (9). |
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9.

The base of this tax, the so called “rateable values” in England and Wales, are determined by the Valuation Office Agency (“VOA”), an executive agency of the Inland Revenue, part of central government (8). The VOA is responsible for valuing the assets and including them on the “Rating Lists”. Revaluations are held every five years, so the rateable values determined on 1 April 1998 (so called “antecedent valuation date”) apply to the current five year period of 2000-05. Valuations completed on 1 April 2003 will apply for the next period of 2005-10 (9).

| 10. | The property unit as valued for rating purposes is called the “rateable hereditament” and includes land, buildings and rateable plant and machinery (10). Liability for the rates falls on the person in occupation of the rateable hereditament, i.e. the person who is in “paramount control” of the assets. According to the VOA, there has to be an actual, exclusive and non transient occupation, which brings commercial benefits to the occupier (11). According to the complainant, in relation to rateable occupation of buildings, which constitute the majority of UK rateable hereditaments, the test is “he who turns on the lights pays the rates”. |
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10.

The property unit as valued for rating purposes is called the “rateable hereditament” and includes land, buildings and rateable plant and machinery (10). Liability for the rates falls on the person in occupation of the rateable hereditament, i.e. the person who is in “paramount control” of the assets. According to the VOA, there has to be an actual, exclusive and non transient occupation, which brings commercial benefits to the occupier (11). According to the complainant, in relation to rateable occupation of buildings, which constitute the majority of UK rateable hereditaments, the test is “he who turns on the lights pays the rates”.

2.2.   Rating of telecommunications

| 11. | Business rates are also levied on telecommunications infrastructure. The Plant and Machinery Regulation (“Regulation”) 2000 (12) stipulates that plant and machinery that are rateable for telecommunications infrastructure are “cables, fibres, wires, conductors or any system of such items, or any part of such items or such system, used or intended to be used in connection with the transmission of communications signals, and which are considered in the equipment of and are situated within premises” (13). Plants and machinery not specifically described in the Regulation, such as for example telecommunications switching and transmission equipment, are not rateable (14). |
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11.

Business rates are also levied on telecommunications infrastructure. The Plant and Machinery Regulation (“Regulation”) 2000 (12) stipulates that plant and machinery that are rateable for telecommunications infrastructure are “cables, fibres, wires, conductors or any system of such items, or any part of such items or such system, used or intended to be used in connection with the transmission of communications signals, and which are considered in the equipment of and are situated within premises” (13). Plants and machinery not specifically described in the Regulation, such as for example telecommunications switching and transmission equipment, are not rateable (14).

| 12. | Telecommunications property has been subject to business rates since 1855 when telegraph poles on railways were deemed to be liable for rates (15), to be followed in 1969 by the telephones belonging to the Post Office (“PO”) (16). Following the split-up of the PO and the privatisation of BT in 1984, this tax was also levied on the latter's infrastructure, as well as on that of Mercury Communications (17), BT's only competitor during the duopoly situation of the 1980s. Initially, the tax amount payable was determined by applying a prescribed “standard formula” (18). |
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12.

Telecommunications property has been subject to business rates since 1855 when telegraph poles on railways were deemed to be liable for rates (15), to be followed in 1969 by the telephones belonging to the Post Office (“PO”) (16). Following the split-up of the PO and the privatisation of BT in 1984, this tax was also levied on the latter's infrastructure, as well as on that of Mercury Communications (17), BT's only competitor during the duopoly situation of the 1980s. Initially, the tax amount payable was determined by applying a prescribed “standard formula” (18).

| 13. | When the telecommunications industry was gradually opened up to competition starting in 1992, the tax was levied on all telecommunications infrastructure, including that belonging to cable television companies, public utilities and other competitive providers entering the telecom market. The LGFA 1988 laid down the legal basis of the system, which foresaw a valuation of rateable hereditament, with a possibility to appeal, to determine the base of the business rates tax (19). |
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13.

When the telecommunications industry was gradually opened up to competition starting in 1992, the tax was levied on all telecommunications infrastructure, including that belonging to cable television companies, public utilities and other competitive providers entering the telecom market. The LGFA 1988 laid down the legal basis of the system, which foresaw a valuation of rateable hereditament, with a possibility to appeal, to determine the base of the business rates tax (19).

| 14. | As new technological solutions appeared, those too were submitted to the business rates tax regime. For instance, fibre optic long distance and metropolitan area networks were added in the late 1990s (20). Fibre optic services involve three different levels of assets: (i) the duct, (ii) the “dark” fibre and (iii) the “lit” fibre. It is the current policy of the VOA to only rate fibres from when they are lit and carry traffic. Ducts are rateable items, but only when used or intended to be used in connection with fibres, wires and cables. Consequently, empty ducts and dark (unlit) fibres are not rated. |
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14.

As new technological solutions appeared, those too were submitted to the business rates tax regime. For instance, fibre optic long distance and metropolitan area networks were added in the late 1990s (20). Fibre optic services involve three different levels of assets: (i) the duct, (ii) the “dark” fibre and (iii) the “lit” fibre. It is the current policy of the VOA to only rate fibres from when they are lit and carry traffic. Ducts are rateable items, but only when used or intended to be used in connection with fibres, wires and cables. Consequently, empty ducts and dark (unlit) fibres are not rated.

2.3.   Valuation

| 15. | The LGFA 1988 laid down the legal basis of the system to be applied in the new market environment. Schedule 6 of the Act foresees a valuation of rateable hereditament to determine the base of the business rates tax. The objective of the valuation is to make a proportionate assessment of the annual rental value for a property if it is available on the market (21). If rental evidence is not available, the objective is to calculate the amount a hypothetical tenant would pay in rent to a hypothetical landlord for the actual hereditament. |
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15.

The LGFA 1988 laid down the legal basis of the system to be applied in the new market environment. Schedule 6 of the Act foresees a valuation of rateable hereditament to determine the base of the business rates tax. The objective of the valuation is to make a proportionate assessment of the annual rental value for a property if it is available on the market (21). If rental evidence is not available, the objective is to calculate the amount a hypothetical tenant would pay in rent to a hypothetical landlord for the actual hereditament.

| 16. | Since a specific method for valuing telecommunications networks is not prescribed, the VOA has a choice of four methods for calculating the “rateable value” of assets. According to the VOA, there is an accepted hierarchy between the possible methods depending on the individual circumstances and the evidence available:






  (a) | First, if there is rental evidence of the property then the “Rental” method is to be used, i.e. the price at which the property is let. |
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16.

Since a specific method for valuing telecommunications networks is not prescribed, the VOA has a choice of four methods for calculating the “rateable value” of assets. According to the VOA, there is an accepted hierarchy between the possible methods depending on the individual circumstances and the evidence available:

(a)

First, if there is rental evidence of the property then the “Rental” method is to be used, i.e. the price at which the property is let.

| (b) | Second, if direct rental evidence is not available, a comparison with the rental evidence of other comparable properties can be made. This method is called “Tone of the List”, basically referring to a benchmarking exercise. |
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(b)

Second, if direct rental evidence is not available, a comparison with the rental evidence of other comparable properties can be made. This method is called “Tone of the List”, basically referring to a benchmarking exercise.

| (c) | Third, a “Receipts and Expenditure”(“R&E”) method is to be applied for properties which are seldom let, typically utilities. It calculates the hypothetical annual rental value by examining the receipts and expenditures to arrive at a net profit, the so called “divisible balance”. The rateable value is determined by deducting the return required by a tenant on his capital (“tenant's share”) from the divisible balance to arrive at the hypothetical rent (“landlord's share”) (22). |
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(c)

Third, a “Receipts and Expenditure”(“R&E”) method is to be applied for properties which are seldom let, typically utilities. It calculates the hypothetical annual rental value by examining the receipts and expenditures to arrive at a net profit, the so called “divisible balance”. The rateable value is determined by deducting the return required by a tenant on his capital (“tenant's share”) from the divisible balance to arrive at the hypothetical rent (“landlord's share”) (22).

| (d) | Fourth, one can resort to the “Contractor's Basis” method. This method arrives at the rental value by estimating the decapitalised (23) costs of constructing a similar hereditament adjusted for age and obsolescence, by looking at the cost of the capital which would need to be raised to finance the build-out, i.e. the interest that one would need to pay for a loan or the foregone interest if one's own capital is used (24). |
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(d)

Fourth, one can resort to the “Contractor's Basis” method. This method arrives at the rental value by estimating the decapitalised (23) costs of constructing a similar hereditament adjusted for age and obsolescence, by looking at the cost of the capital which would need to be raised to finance the build-out, i.e. the interest that one would need to pay for a loan or the foregone interest if one's own capital is used (24).

3.   DESCRIPTION OF THE MEASURE

3.1.   British Telecommunications

Valuations

| 17. | 1995-2000 period: The VOA applied the “Receipts and Expenditure” method to BT. Accordingly, BT's tax liability for the period of 1995-2000 was determined by a valuation based on the “R&E” method undertaken by the VOA, as subsequently adjusted following a negotiated settlement with BT who appealed against the original valuation at the Central London Valuation Tribunal, which is a technical tribunal. The case was also due to be heard by the Lands Tribunal, a UK court, when BT and the VOA reached a settlement. |
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17.

1995-2000 period: The VOA applied the “Receipts and Expenditure” method to BT. Accordingly, BT's tax liability for the period of 1995-2000 was determined by a valuation based on the “R&E” method undertaken by the VOA, as subsequently adjusted following a negotiated settlement with BT who appealed against the original valuation at the Central London Valuation Tribunal, which is a technical tribunal. The case was also due to be heard by the Lands Tribunal, a UK court, when BT and the VOA reached a settlement.

| 18. | The detailed inputs into the economic model forming the basis of the original valuation by the VOA using the “R&E” method and the content of the subsequent adjustments made following the negotiations with BT (who have constructed their own model based on the “Contractor's basis” method) are at this stage not available to the Commission and their transmission necessitates, according to the UK authorities, BT's consent. The outcome was an agreement between the VOA and BT, which set the rateable value of BT's assets at GBP 470 million for the fiscal year 1995/96 (25). Applying the 1995/96 multiplier of 43,2 % to this rateable value, BT's tax liability is estimated to equal about GBP 203 million for this period, which represented approximately 2 % of BT's relevant annual revenues (26). |
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18.

The detailed inputs into the economic model forming the basis of the original valuation by the VOA using the “R&E” method and the content of the subsequent adjustments made following the negotiations with BT (who have constructed their own model based on the “Contractor's basis” method) are at this stage not available to the Commission and their transmission necessitates, according to the UK authorities, BT's consent. The outcome was an agreement between the VOA and BT, which set the rateable value of BT's assets at GBP 470 million for the fiscal year 1995/96 (25). Applying the 1995/96 multiplier of 43,2 % to this rateable value, BT's tax liability is estimated to equal about GBP 203 million for this period, which represented approximately 2 % of BT's relevant annual revenues (26).

| 19. | 2000-2005 period: For the 2000 revaluation, applicable for the period of 2000-2005, the VOA settled BT's asset valuation at GBP 493 million (27). The 2000 value was based on the principles and values agreed at the same time the 1995 list agreement was concluded (28). |
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19.

2000-2005 period: For the 2000 revaluation, applicable for the period of 2000-2005, the VOA settled BT's asset valuation at GBP 493 million (27). The 2000 value was based on the principles and values agreed at the same time the 1995 list agreement was concluded (28).

Revisions

| 20. | In principle, a review of the system only takes place every five years. According to the UK authorities, when applying the “R&E” method to BT, economic modelling was used to estimate the prospects of changes to the level of receipts over a period of five years, and an “equated” level of receipts and expenditure was estimated as being representative of the five year period. This increased the level of certainty regarding BT's tax liabilities, as highlighted by the fact that the 1995 valuation also served as a basis for determining the 2000 values and as such conferred a de facto 10 year certainty upon BT. |
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20.

In principle, a review of the system only takes place every five years. According to the UK authorities, when applying the “R&E” method to BT, economic modelling was used to estimate the prospects of changes to the level of receipts over a period of five years, and an “equated” level of receipts and expenditure was estimated as being representative of the five year period. This increased the level of certainty regarding BT's tax liabilities, as highlighted by the fact that the 1995 valuation also served as a basis for determining the 2000 values and as such conferred a de facto 10 year certainty upon BT.

| 21. | Moreover, subsequent downward revisions have been made to the 1995 valuation, to reflect the loss of market share of the company in the UK fixed telecommunications market resulting from the physical roll-out of competing telecommunications systems. In practice, these revisions meant for instance a decrease of an estimated 22 % in the value of the rateable hereditament in 1999/00 compared to 1995/96, resulting in a reduction in BT's tax liability over the same period. According to the authorities, such revisions are in line with the LGFA 1988 provisions which allow alterations to reflect changes in the physical state and enjoyment of the network (29). To the Commission's knowledge, no similar upward adjustment has been made to reflect possible extensions or upgrades of the network. |
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21.

Moreover, subsequent downward revisions have been made to the 1995 valuation, to reflect the loss of market share of the company in the UK fixed telecommunications market resulting from the physical roll-out of competing telecommunications systems. In practice, these revisions meant for instance a decrease of an estimated 22 % in the value of the rateable hereditament in 1999/00 compared to 1995/96, resulting in a reduction in BT's tax liability over the same period. According to the authorities, such revisions are in line with the LGFA 1988 provisions which allow alterations to reflect changes in the physical state and enjoyment of the network (29). To the Commission's knowledge, no similar upward adjustment has been made to reflect possible extensions or upgrades of the network.

3.2.   Kingston Communications

| 22. | Kingston Communications (Hull) plc is the incumbent telecommunications operator in the region of Hull (30). During the privatisation of the telecommunications networks in the UK in the late 1980s, the network in Hull remained State owned and the property of the municipality. Part of it was then sold to the public in 1999 with the Hull City Council remaining the only substantial single shareholder (31). |
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22.

Kingston Communications (Hull) plc is the incumbent telecommunications operator in the region of Hull (30). During the privatisation of the telecommunications networks in the UK in the late 1980s, the network in Hull remained State owned and the property of the municipality. Part of it was then sold to the public in 1999 with the Hull City Council remaining the only substantial single shareholder (31).

| 23. | The Commission has at this stage no information about the results of its valuation and hence the taxes it has been liable for. However, according to the UK authorities, the only other operator valued by the full “R&E” method since 1995 is Kingston Communications in Hull. |
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23.

The Commission has at this stage no information about the results of its valuation and hence the taxes it has been liable for. However, according to the UK authorities, the only other operator valued by the full “R&E” method since 1995 is Kingston Communications in Hull.

3.3.   Vtesse

Valuations

| 24. | Vtesse is a “fibre to the business” service provider offering high-capacity retail leased lines, currently ranging from 25Mbits/s to 32Mbits/s, mainly supplied to large corporate users. |
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24.

Vtesse is a “fibre to the business” service provider offering high-capacity retail leased lines, currently ranging from 25Mbits/s to 32Mbits/s, mainly supplied to large corporate users.

| 25. | According to Vtesse, these products de facto compete with BT's 10Mbits/s and above leased line offers. In order to connect its customers, Vtesse leases “dark” fibre from other backbone operators and complements this with their own built infrastructure. The property rented, i.e. the dark fibre, which is then lit, is included in the “rateable hereditament” of Vtesse. The VOA has decided to rate Vtesse based on the “Tone of the List” method which establishes the “rateable value” of a kilometre of fibre route (consisting of a fibre pair), which is then applied each time new fibre is rented and lit. This is the method generally used for other competitive providers as well. |
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25.

According to Vtesse, these products de facto compete with BT's 10Mbits/s and above leased line offers. In order to connect its customers, Vtesse leases “dark” fibre from other backbone operators and complements this with their own built infrastructure. The property rented, i.e. the dark fibre, which is then lit, is included in the “rateable hereditament” of Vtesse. The VOA has decided to rate Vtesse based on the “Tone of the List” method which establishes the “rateable value” of a kilometre of fibre route (consisting of a fibre pair), which is then applied each time new fibre is rented and lit. This is the method generally used for other competitive providers as well.

| 26. | Based on benchmarks of actual rates paid, the VOA has set the tone rate for one kilometre route of fibre at GBP 1,200/km for the London metropolitan area and GBP 1,000/km in other parts of the country. In addition, in 2001 a so called “oversupply allowance” was granted by the VOA to fibre providers assessed by the “Tone of the list” method (32) equalling a 15 % discount on the rateable value effective as of 1 April 2001 and 25 % as of 1 April 2002 (33). According to the complainant, this was a one-off measure taking into account the chronic over-investment in fibre during the telecommunications boom and the subsequent drastic reduction in value of telecommunications networks. Accordingly, Vtesse's tax liability was around 7 % of its recurring revenues in 2003/04, and is expected to be about 10 % for 2004/05 (34). According to UKCTA, business rates paid by other competitive providers represent a similar percentage of their revenues to that of Vtesse. |
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26.

Based on benchmarks of actual rates paid, the VOA has set the tone rate for one kilometre route of fibre at GBP 1,200/km for the London metropolitan area and GBP 1,000/km in other parts of the country. In addition, in 2001 a so called “oversupply allowance” was granted by the VOA to fibre providers assessed by the “Tone of the list” method (32) equalling a 15 % discount on the rateable value effective as of 1 April 2001 and 25 % as of 1 April 2002 (33). According to the complainant, this was a one-off measure taking into account the chronic over-investment in fibre during the telecommunications boom and the subsequent drastic reduction in value of telecommunications networks. Accordingly, Vtesse's tax liability was around 7 % of its recurring revenues in 2003/04, and is expected to be about 10 % for 2004/05 (34). According to UKCTA, business rates paid by other competitive providers represent a similar percentage of their revenues to that of Vtesse.

Revisions

| 27. | While the tone rate is set at the beginning of the five year period, the tone of a kilometre route of fibre is applied each time new fibre is rented and lit. Vtesse has the obligation to regularly inform the VOA of extension to its network so that the valuation of its hereditament can be adjusted. As a consequence, whenever it procures fibre to provide services to its customers, it is liable for rates that may equal up to 20-30 % of the recurring revenues of a new contract. |
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27.

While the tone rate is set at the beginning of the five year period, the tone of a kilometre route of fibre is applied each time new fibre is rented and lit. Vtesse has the obligation to regularly inform the VOA of extension to its network so that the valuation of its hereditament can be adjusted. As a consequence, whenever it procures fibre to provide services to its customers, it is liable for rates that may equal up to 20-30 % of the recurring revenues of a new contract.

3.4.   Other operators

| 28. | Mercury Communications (later Cable and Wireless, “C&W”) was the first company to establish a nationwide telecommunications infrastructure to rival BT in the early 1980s, during the so called duopoly period. In May 2000, C&W was divided into two businesses: the residential telephony, cable and internet access part was sold to cable TV operator ntl, while C&W retained the UK corporate internet access business and was renamed C&W UK. With the full liberalisation of the market in the 1990s, C&W UK became an alternative telecoms provider competing with several other players in the market (35). Originally C&W was valued just like BT by a prescribed formulae. However, it is unclear for the Commission which valuation method is currently used for C&W UK. |
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28.

Mercury Communications (later Cable and Wireless, “C&W”) was the first company to establish a nationwide telecommunications infrastructure to rival BT in the early 1980s, during the so called duopoly period. In May 2000, C&W was divided into two businesses: the residential telephony, cable and internet access part was sold to cable TV operator ntl, while C&W retained the UK corporate internet access business and was renamed C&W UK. With the full liberalisation of the market in the 1990s, C&W UK became an alternative telecoms provider competing with several other players in the market (35). Originally C&W was valued just like BT by a prescribed formulae. However, it is unclear for the Commission which valuation method is currently used for C&W UK.

| 29. | Regarding other operators active on the UK market, it is the Commission's understanding that they are valued based on the “Rental” or the “Tone of the List” method (36). According to UKCTA, alternative telecoms operators typically pay two or three times the tax, expressed as a percentage of revenues, than BT. However, the Commission currently is not in possession of exact data concerning business rates tax liabilities and relevant revenues of alternative telecommunications operators. |
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29.

Regarding other operators active on the UK market, it is the Commission's understanding that they are valued based on the “Rental” or the “Tone of the List” method (36). According to UKCTA, alternative telecoms operators typically pay two or three times the tax, expressed as a percentage of revenues, than BT. However, the Commission currently is not in possession of exact data concerning business rates tax liabilities and relevant revenues of alternative telecommunications operators.

4.   COMPLAINT AND COMMENTS

| 30. | The complainant has raised the following specific claims and concerns:






  (a) | Choice of methods:
  If BT was valued using the “Rental” or “Tone of the List” methods as is used for Vtesse, it would end-up with a substantially higher and more proportionate tax liability. It questions why the “Rental” or “Tone of the List” methods are not used for BT. |
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30.

The complainant has raised the following specific claims and concerns:

(a)

Choice of methods:
  If BT was valued using the “Rental” or “Tone of the List” methods as is used for Vtesse, it would end-up with a substantially higher and more proportionate tax liability. It questions why the “Rental” or “Tone of the List” methods are not used for BT.

| (b) | Adjustments:
  In any case, the various methods should in principle yield similar results if appropriate adjustments were made. The complainant doubts whether such adjustments are made in the process of BT's valuations, given the different results. |
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(b)

Adjustments:
  In any case, the various methods should in principle yield similar results if appropriate adjustments were made. The complainant doubts whether such adjustments are made in the process of BT's valuations, given the different results.

| (c) | Downward revisions:
  There is no downward revision in the valuation of competitors similar to that foreseen for BT to account for their eventual loss of market share or change in network topology. |
| --- | --- |

(c)

Downward revisions:
  There is no downward revision in the valuation of competitors similar to that foreseen for BT to account for their eventual loss of market share or change in network topology.

| (d) | Upward revisions:
  There does not seem to be a systematic upward revision of BT's valuation either, should the value of its assets increase. At the same time, Vtesse is charged incrementally, which causes an increase in the recurring price it can offer to its customers, whenever it leases new fibre, and lights this fibre to serve them. The complainant claims to have lost several contracts to BT by a small margin due to the incremental tax burden it is obliged to include in its price bid versus BT who has no such incremental burden. |
| --- | --- |

(d)

Upward revisions:
  There does not seem to be a systematic upward revision of BT's valuation either, should the value of its assets increase. At the same time, Vtesse is charged incrementally, which causes an increase in the recurring price it can offer to its customers, whenever it leases new fibre, and lights this fibre to serve them. The complainant claims to have lost several contracts to BT by a small margin due to the incremental tax burden it is obliged to include in its price bid versus BT who has no such incremental burden.

| (e) | Discretionary powers
  : The rating values and the valuation methods can be appealed, subject to time limits. Once an appeal has been made, typically negotiations are held to agree on an appropriate value. If no agreement is reached, it is referred to the relevant Valuation Tribunal, and at a second stage to the Lands Tribunal for determination. However, in most cases a negotiated settlement is reached. According to the complainant, the settlement signed with BT in 1995 gives the incumbent preferential treatment. |
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(e)

Discretionary powers
  : The rating values and the valuation methods can be appealed, subject to time limits. Once an appeal has been made, typically negotiations are held to agree on an appropriate value. If no agreement is reached, it is referred to the relevant Valuation Tribunal, and at a second stage to the Lands Tribunal for determination. However, in most cases a negotiated settlement is reached. According to the complainant, the settlement signed with BT in 1995 gives the incumbent preferential treatment.

| 31. | It should be noted that UKCTA (37), representing various competitive telecom operators, as well as other operators' groupings, (38) have also expressed criticism to the UK authorities concerning, among others:






  — | the inappropriateness of applying a rating system, which was originally designed to assess buildings, to telecommunications infrastructure, including its infrequent revisions; |
| --- | --- | --- |

31.

It should be noted that UKCTA (37), representing various competitive telecom operators, as well as other operators' groupings, (38) have also expressed criticism to the UK authorities concerning, among others:

—

the inappropriateness of applying a rating system, which was originally designed to assess buildings, to telecommunications infrastructure, including its infrequent revisions;

| — | the asymmetry of the valuation, in which different methods are applied to operators involved in the same activity, i.e. delivering telecom services, with special regard to the distinct treatment of the incumbents; |
| --- | --- |

—

the asymmetry of the valuation, in which different methods are applied to operators involved in the same activity, i.e. delivering telecom services, with special regard to the distinct treatment of the incumbents;

| — | the disproportionate results yielded by the use of such differential methods, i.e. BT is estimated to pay about 2-4 % of revenues (39), while its competitors typically pay several times this proportion. |
| --- | --- |

—

the disproportionate results yielded by the use of such differential methods, i.e. BT is estimated to pay about 2-4 % of revenues (39), while its competitors typically pay several times this proportion.

| 32. | In response to the concerns of the industry, the UK Department of Trade and Industry, in association with the Office of the Prime Minister, OFCOM (the sector regulator) and the VOA, has appointed a contractor to review the rating system as it applies to telecommunications companies, including possible effects on competition. The expert was due to report back during the summer of 2004. However, according to the UK authorities, due to last minute unforeseen circumstances, this report has not yet been completed and could not be published. |
| --- | --- |

32.

In response to the concerns of the industry, the UK Department of Trade and Industry, in association with the Office of the Prime Minister, OFCOM (the sector regulator) and the VOA, has appointed a contractor to review the rating system as it applies to telecommunications companies, including possible effects on competition. The expert was due to report back during the summer of 2004. However, according to the UK authorities, due to last minute unforeseen circumstances, this report has not yet been completed and could not be published.

5.   ASSESSMENT

5.1.   Existence of aid

| 33. | According to Article 87(1) of the EC Treaty any State aid granted by a Member State or through State resources in any form whatsoever which distorts competition or threatens to distort competition by favouring certain undertakings or the production of certain goods shall, in so far as it affects trade between Member States, be incompatible with the common market. According to the Commission's notice on the application of the State aid rules to measures relating to direct business taxation, tax benefits restricted to certain types of undertakings, insofar as they favour certain undertakings or the production of certain goods, may constitute State aid (40). |
| --- | --- |

33.

According to Article 87(1) of the EC Treaty any State aid granted by a Member State or through State resources in any form whatsoever which distorts competition or threatens to distort competition by favouring certain undertakings or the production of certain goods shall, in so far as it affects trade between Member States, be incompatible with the common market. According to the Commission's notice on the application of the State aid rules to measures relating to direct business taxation, tax benefits restricted to certain types of undertakings, insofar as they favour certain undertakings or the production of certain goods, may constitute State aid (40).

State resources

| 34. | In applying Community rules, State resources can be in “any form whatsoever”, including tax measures such as a reduction in the tax base. If and when there is a reduction in a tax burden compared to the general system, State resources are at stake. The relative reduction of the business rates tax burden lowers the tax revenues of local authorities and hence is equivalent to the use of State resources in the form of fiscal expenditure. |
| --- | --- |

34.

In applying Community rules, State resources can be in “any form whatsoever”, including tax measures such as a reduction in the tax base. If and when there is a reduction in a tax burden compared to the general system, State resources are at stake. The relative reduction of the business rates tax burden lowers the tax revenues of local authorities and hence is equivalent to the use of State resources in the form of fiscal expenditure.

Selective advantage

| 35. | A reduction in the tax base, and consequently the level of taxation, that a telecommunications operator is liable for, confers an advantage upon that undertaking in that it reduces the costs that that undertaking would normally bear in the course of its business. This seems to be the case for BT and Kingston Communications, which benefit from a reduced tax base compared to other operators. |
| --- | --- |

35.

A reduction in the tax base, and consequently the level of taxation, that a telecommunications operator is liable for, confers an advantage upon that undertaking in that it reduces the costs that that undertaking would normally bear in the course of its business. This seems to be the case for BT and Kingston Communications, which benefit from a reduced tax base compared to other operators.

| 36. | The reasons behind this discriminatory taxation appear to be the application of a particular asset valuation method to BT and Kingston Communications, while applying a different method to other operators. Even if the method applied, including the corresponding revision mechanism, is foreseen in the relevant legislation as one of the possible approaches, the non-uniformity of the system and the discretionary powers given to the VOA to apply the general provisions to specific operators, while deciding to treat other operators differently, may lead to a selective advantage to a certain undertaking, while disadvantaging others who compete on the same market. |
| --- | --- |

36.

The reasons behind this discriminatory taxation appear to be the application of a particular asset valuation method to BT and Kingston Communications, while applying a different method to other operators. Even if the method applied, including the corresponding revision mechanism, is foreseen in the relevant legislation as one of the possible approaches, the non-uniformity of the system and the discretionary powers given to the VOA to apply the general provisions to specific operators, while deciding to treat other operators differently, may lead to a selective advantage to a certain undertaking, while disadvantaging others who compete on the same market.

| 37. | The justifications given by the UK authorities for applying the “Receipt and Expenditure” method to BT are:






  (a) | Asset ownership:
  BT owns 98 % of its infrastructure and does not pay rent for it which could serve as a basis for the “Rental” method. |
| --- | --- | --- |

37.

The justifications given by the UK authorities for applying the “Receipt and Expenditure” method to BT are:

(a)

Asset ownership:
  BT owns 98 % of its infrastructure and does not pay rent for it which could serve as a basis for the “Rental” method.

| (b) | Size and diversity of infrastructure:
  There is no network as large, or nearly as large, and as diverse as BT's. There are no comparable operators whose rental values could serve as benchmarks. |
| --- | --- |

(b)

Size and diversity of infrastructure:
  There is no network as large, or nearly as large, and as diverse as BT's. There are no comparable operators whose rental values could serve as benchmarks.

| (c) | The necessity to value “as a whole”:

  BT's assessment is not made up of valuing many small parts and adding them together, but it has to be valued as a whole. Benchmarks on rental values of particular network elements are irrelevant. |
| --- | --- |

(c)

The necessity to value “as a whole”:

  BT's assessment is not made up of valuing many small parts and adding them together, but it has to be valued as a whole. Benchmarks on rental values of particular network elements are irrelevant.

| (d) | Special obligations:
  The full value of BT's network is “depressed” by its onerous licence conditions such as its universal service obligations (“USO”) and price cap regulations. Vtesse, on the other hand, does not have USO (41). |
| --- | --- |

(d)

Special obligations:
  The full value of BT's network is “depressed” by its onerous licence conditions such as its universal service obligations (“USO”) and price cap regulations. Vtesse, on the other hand, does not have USO (41).

| 38. | As stated in the Commission's abovementioned notice on direct business taxation, the presence of aid may be ruled out where the different nature of the measure is justified by the nature and general scheme of the system. In line with the case-law of the Court of Justice (42), the Commission has continued to take the view that this justification must be based on the intrinsic features and inherent logic of the tax system. In the case at hand, however, the Commission has doubts about the validity of such arguments, and in particular: |
| --- | --- |

38.

As stated in the Commission's abovementioned notice on direct business taxation, the presence of aid may be ruled out where the different nature of the measure is justified by the nature and general scheme of the system. In line with the case-law of the Court of Justice (42), the Commission has continued to take the view that this justification must be based on the intrinsic features and inherent logic of the tax system. In the case at hand, however, the Commission has doubts about the validity of such arguments, and in particular:

| 39. | Asset ownership:
  The UK authorities stated that the “Rental” method can only apply to lessees (and not lessors). However, the rent received by BT when renting out its own infrastructure could serve as guidance for the value of the network. Moreover, BT's retail business units themselves effectively rent infrastructure and buy network services from BT Wholesale, the business unit that manages BT's infrastructure. The internal transfer prices between BT's retail businesses and BT Wholesale could provide a basis, or at least a benchmark, for estimating the rental value, with appropriate adjustments for network services (provided, of course, that those prices are set at arms length). |
| --- | --- |

39.

Asset ownership:
  The UK authorities stated that the “Rental” method can only apply to lessees (and not lessors). However, the rent received by BT when renting out its own infrastructure could serve as guidance for the value of the network. Moreover, BT's retail business units themselves effectively rent infrastructure and buy network services from BT Wholesale, the business unit that manages BT's infrastructure. The internal transfer prices between BT's retail businesses and BT Wholesale could provide a basis, or at least a benchmark, for estimating the rental value, with appropriate adjustments for network services (provided, of course, that those prices are set at arms length).

| 40. | Size and diversity of infrastructure:
  Such argumentation tends to suggest that bigger companies deserve reduced or digressive rates of taxation. This statement appears to be incompatible with the Commission's position in previous fiscal aid cases stipulating that nothing justified preferential treatment in favour of large companies (43). Moreover, if the logic of the business rates property tax system is to assess the value of infrastructure, the size of the company should not be taken into consideration during the valuation process. In any case, the cable TV companies in the UK are also active in the telecommunications market, especially residential and, similarly to BT, have both an access and a backbone network. Their taxation level could also serve as a benchmark (44). |
| --- | --- |

40.

Size and diversity of infrastructure:
  Such argumentation tends to suggest that bigger companies deserve reduced or digressive rates of taxation. This statement appears to be incompatible with the Commission's position in previous fiscal aid cases stipulating that nothing justified preferential treatment in favour of large companies (43). Moreover, if the logic of the business rates property tax system is to assess the value of infrastructure, the size of the company should not be taken into consideration during the valuation process. In any case, the cable TV companies in the UK are also active in the telecommunications market, especially residential and, similarly to BT, have both an access and a backbone network. Their taxation level could also serve as a benchmark (44).

| 41. | The necessity to value “as a whole”:
  The UK was a forerunner in telecoms liberalisation, account separation and tariff regulation based on the cost-orientation of BT's tariffs. For these purposes, OFCOM, the UK regulatory authority, and its predecessor OFTEL, have been systematically collecting cost accounting data from BT since the 1980s. BT itself and OFCOM are in possession of detailed cost accounting data for BT's network. This data could be used to determine the taxable value of BT's network, at least to verify the assessment of the tax authorities. Moreover, liberalisation and network element unbundling have resulted in a variety of wholesale products which could serve as benchmarks for valuing the rental value of various infrastructure elements. |
| --- | --- |

41.

The necessity to value “as a whole”:
  The UK was a forerunner in telecoms liberalisation, account separation and tariff regulation based on the cost-orientation of BT's tariffs. For these purposes, OFCOM, the UK regulatory authority, and its predecessor OFTEL, have been systematically collecting cost accounting data from BT since the 1980s. BT itself and OFCOM are in possession of detailed cost accounting data for BT's network. This data could be used to determine the taxable value of BT's network, at least to verify the assessment of the tax authorities. Moreover, liberalisation and network element unbundling have resulted in a variety of wholesale products which could serve as benchmarks for valuing the rental value of various infrastructure elements.

| 42. | Special obligations:
  The Commission is not aware of BT or Kingston Communications being compensated for the provision of universal service under the Universal Service Directive (45). Nor is the Commission aware of any compensation for universal service, or for any other obligation, which could be regarded as a service of general economic interest, specifically being granted through reduced property taxation. As regards to price regulation, while it may limit the returns of the incumbent and as such, the taxation level calculated based on the “R&E” method, this should not lead to inconsistency between the results of valuations by different methodologies. Finally, being an incumbent in a market tends to bring advantages in terms of asset value, while the arguments brought forward by the VOA tend to focus on disadvantages. |
| --- | --- |

42.

Special obligations:
  The Commission is not aware of BT or Kingston Communications being compensated for the provision of universal service under the Universal Service Directive (45). Nor is the Commission aware of any compensation for universal service, or for any other obligation, which could be regarded as a service of general economic interest, specifically being granted through reduced property taxation. As regards to price regulation, while it may limit the returns of the incumbent and as such, the taxation level calculated based on the “R&E” method, this should not lead to inconsistency between the results of valuations by different methodologies. Finally, being an incumbent in a market tends to bring advantages in terms of asset value, while the arguments brought forward by the VOA tend to focus on disadvantages.

| 43. | Adjustments:
  The Commission notes that even if the use of different methods could be justified by the logic of the system, these should deliver comparable results. The Commission's initial assessment of the use of various methods in this particular case is that they seem to lead to significantly different results based on similar facts. In particular, the “R&E” method estimates the rent value of the assets on the basis of revenues from the use of those assets, while the “Rental” and “Tone of the List” methods pick up the market values for the rent. Hence, it seems that the “R&E” method implicitly assumes that assets are used at capacity and profitably, which however may not always be the case. To avoid penalising operators whose assets are valued using a different method, appropriate adjustments would need to be made. The Commission does not question the validity of the methods themselves, but rather has doubts about the way they are applied to different operators. |
| --- | --- |

43.

Adjustments:
  The Commission notes that even if the use of different methods could be justified by the logic of the system, these should deliver comparable results. The Commission's initial assessment of the use of various methods in this particular case is that they seem to lead to significantly different results based on similar facts. In particular, the “R&E” method estimates the rent value of the assets on the basis of revenues from the use of those assets, while the “Rental” and “Tone of the List” methods pick up the market values for the rent. Hence, it seems that the “R&E” method implicitly assumes that assets are used at capacity and profitably, which however may not always be the case. To avoid penalising operators whose assets are valued using a different method, appropriate adjustments would need to be made. The Commission does not question the validity of the methods themselves, but rather has doubts about the way they are applied to different operators.

| 44. | Revisions:
  There does not seem to be any review mechanism in the system to ensure an equitable and proportionate tax burden among operators when applying the different methods. Scope for revisions within the five year cycle is very limited. While BT does enjoy a downwards revision mechanism, there does not seem to be a similar systematic review of the market conditions faced by competitors. The effect of such adjustment appears to move the tax payable by the incumbent closer to one based on operational performance and revenues, while for other operators it remains a tax based on rent of assets irrespective of performance. In addition, the failure to take into account the increase in the value of BT's infrastructure between two five-year review periods, while charging competitors incrementally as the value of their network increases, seems to further distort competition. |
| --- | --- |

44.

Revisions:
  There does not seem to be any review mechanism in the system to ensure an equitable and proportionate tax burden among operators when applying the different methods. Scope for revisions within the five year cycle is very limited. While BT does enjoy a downwards revision mechanism, there does not seem to be a similar systematic review of the market conditions faced by competitors. The effect of such adjustment appears to move the tax payable by the incumbent closer to one based on operational performance and revenues, while for other operators it remains a tax based on rent of assets irrespective of performance. In addition, the failure to take into account the increase in the value of BT's infrastructure between two five-year review periods, while charging competitors incrementally as the value of their network increases, seems to further distort competition.

| 45. | Discretionary powers:
  The valuation process gives discretionary powers to the VOA and seems to leave considerable scope for negotiation. According to the UK authorities, while there is an established practice, approved by the case law of the Courts of England, of applying a certain hierarchy of methods, there is no requirement in the LGFA 1988 to use any particular method in order to arrive at the rateable value and all methods can be considered (46). In many cases, negotiated settlements are reached. At this point, the Commission is unable to determine whether the reasoning behind adopting a certain rateable value for BT is well reasoned, justified, and documented and does not unduly disadvantage other operators (47). In any case, such a settlement should respect the principle of non-discrimination among operators and the parameters on which the agreement has been reached should be objective and opened for all operators. |
| --- | --- |

45.

Discretionary powers:
  The valuation process gives discretionary powers to the VOA and seems to leave considerable scope for negotiation. According to the UK authorities, while there is an established practice, approved by the case law of the Courts of England, of applying a certain hierarchy of methods, there is no requirement in the LGFA 1988 to use any particular method in order to arrive at the rateable value and all methods can be considered (46). In many cases, negotiated settlements are reached. At this point, the Commission is unable to determine whether the reasoning behind adopting a certain rateable value for BT is well reasoned, justified, and documented and does not unduly disadvantage other operators (47). In any case, such a settlement should respect the principle of non-discrimination among operators and the parameters on which the agreement has been reached should be objective and opened for all operators.

| 46. | Resulting taxation:
  The doubts about the justification of applying different valuation methods are further reinforced by the differences in the resulting taxation. Even if the use of different methods and revision mechanisms would be based on an objective set of criteria, the Commission would expect these different methods to ensure equal treatment by yielding comparable results. In this context, it would be useful to compare the tax levels to an objective measure of the economic use of the assets taxed, such as, for instance, revenues. The tax payable by BT seems to be in the range of 2-4 % of relevant revenues while that payable by Vtesse and other new entrant competitors is said to be two or three times as much, and to reach 20-30 % on an incremental basis. Moreover, the application of different methods seems to structurally produce different results when it comes to the frequency of revisions and adjustments. While some minor discrepancy might be justified in the context of a property tax, it needs to be ensured that such differences are not disproportionate and discriminatory. |
| --- | --- |

46.

Resulting taxation:
  The doubts about the justification of applying different valuation methods are further reinforced by the differences in the resulting taxation. Even if the use of different methods and revision mechanisms would be based on an objective set of criteria, the Commission would expect these different methods to ensure equal treatment by yielding comparable results. In this context, it would be useful to compare the tax levels to an objective measure of the economic use of the assets taxed, such as, for instance, revenues. The tax payable by BT seems to be in the range of 2-4 % of relevant revenues while that payable by Vtesse and other new entrant competitors is said to be two or three times as much, and to reach 20-30 % on an incremental basis. Moreover, the application of different methods seems to structurally produce different results when it comes to the frequency of revisions and adjustments. While some minor discrepancy might be justified in the context of a property tax, it needs to be ensured that such differences are not disproportionate and discriminatory.

Distortion of competition

| 47. | The UK telecommunications market has been opened to competition since 1992 and today is a highly competitive market with numerous operators. BT and Kingston Communications directly compete against Vtesse and other alternative providers active in the telecommunications services market. Hence on the assumption that the difference in business rates taxation among these operators involved State aid and conferred a selective advantage upon certain players, it would alter their competitive position on the market and hence distort competition. |
| --- | --- |

47.

The UK telecommunications market has been opened to competition since 1992 and today is a highly competitive market with numerous operators. BT and Kingston Communications directly compete against Vtesse and other alternative providers active in the telecommunications services market. Hence on the assumption that the difference in business rates taxation among these operators involved State aid and conferred a selective advantage upon certain players, it would alter their competitive position on the market and hence distort competition.

Effect on trade

| 48. | The mere fact that some firms' position is strengthened by the resulting lower rate of taxation compared to that of other firms which are competitors in intra-Community trade demonstrates that Community trade is affected. BT is a company active on a global scale, competing on several community markets in electronic communications services. Hence any advantage conferred upon it affects trade between Member States. This criterion also appears to be fulfilled to the extent that the telecoms companies affected by the measure at stake are able, actually or potentially, to trade with companies located in other Member States. |
| --- | --- |

48.

The mere fact that some firms' position is strengthened by the resulting lower rate of taxation compared to that of other firms which are competitors in intra-Community trade demonstrates that Community trade is affected. BT is a company active on a global scale, competing on several community markets in electronic communications services. Hence any advantage conferred upon it affects trade between Member States. This criterion also appears to be fulfilled to the extent that the telecoms companies affected by the measure at stake are able, actually or potentially, to trade with companies located in other Member States.

Conclusion

| 49. | In conclusion, it would appear that the measure under consideration involves State aid within the meaning of Article 87(1) EC. The Commission would like to emphasize, however, that this conclusion should not be seen as an attempt on its part to impose on the UK authorities the use of a particular valuation method. It is, in fact, for the UK authorities to choose the method they consider most appropriate to value the “rateable hereditament”, provided that any differences between individual undertakings or economic sectors are justified by the intrinsic features and inherent logic of the tax system and that, eventually, all taxable persons are subject to the same objective and non-discriminatory treatment, leading to comparable levels of taxation. |
| --- | --- |

49.

In conclusion, it would appear that the measure under consideration involves State aid within the meaning of Article 87(1) EC. The Commission would like to emphasize, however, that this conclusion should not be seen as an attempt on its part to impose on the UK authorities the use of a particular valuation method. It is, in fact, for the UK authorities to choose the method they consider most appropriate to value the “rateable hereditament”, provided that any differences between individual undertakings or economic sectors are justified by the intrinsic features and inherent logic of the tax system and that, eventually, all taxable persons are subject to the same objective and non-discriminatory treatment, leading to comparable levels of taxation.

5.2.   Nature and amount of the possible aid

| 50. | On the basis of the information provided so far, the Commission tends to believe that the measures constitute new aid and not existing aid. Despite the fact that communications systems have been rated since the middle of the 19th century, it is the Local Government Finance Act (LGFA) 1988 which largely governs the current non-domestic rates system in England and Wales. Prior to the 1988 Act, BT (and most other utilities) were rated by a mandated statutory formula. The LGFA put utilities on the same commercial basis as other enterprises by introducing an independent valuation by various methods and allowing for appeal. The provisions of the Act were implemented at the 1995 valuation when the “Receipt and Expenditure” method was first applied to BT and Kingston Communications. |
| --- | --- |

50.

On the basis of the information provided so far, the Commission tends to believe that the measures constitute new aid and not existing aid. Despite the fact that communications systems have been rated since the middle of the 19th century, it is the Local Government Finance Act (LGFA) 1988 which largely governs the current non-domestic rates system in England and Wales. Prior to the 1988 Act, BT (and most other utilities) were rated by a mandated statutory formula. The LGFA put utilities on the same commercial basis as other enterprises by introducing an independent valuation by various methods and allowing for appeal. The provisions of the Act were implemented at the 1995 valuation when the “Receipt and Expenditure” method was first applied to BT and Kingston Communications.

| 51. | Assuming that the measure qualifies as aid, within the meaning of Article 87(1) EC, the aid amount must, according to § 35 of the Commission's abovementioned notice on direct business taxation, be calculated on the basis of a comparison between the tax actually paid and the amount which should have been paid if the generally applicable rule had been applied. However, since, at this point in time the Commission cannot pronounce itself on which method, if any, and, which level of taxation, if any, is deemed to be the standard one in the present case, the amount of aid cannot be determined at this stage, either. |
| --- | --- |

51.

Assuming that the measure qualifies as aid, within the meaning of Article 87(1) EC, the aid amount must, according to § 35 of the Commission's abovementioned notice on direct business taxation, be calculated on the basis of a comparison between the tax actually paid and the amount which should have been paid if the generally applicable rule had been applied. However, since, at this point in time the Commission cannot pronounce itself on which method, if any, and, which level of taxation, if any, is deemed to be the standard one in the present case, the amount of aid cannot be determined at this stage, either.

5.3.   Compatibility

| 52. | At this stage and in view of the above, the Commission cannot exclude that BT, to whom the “Receipt and Expenditure” method is applied, may benefit from a specific and more favourable tax treatment amounting to State aid as defined under Article 87(1) EC. In addition, the Commission notes that Kingston Communication is likely to benefit from a similar tax treatment than BT. |
| --- | --- |

52.

At this stage and in view of the above, the Commission cannot exclude that BT, to whom the “Receipt and Expenditure” method is applied, may benefit from a specific and more favourable tax treatment amounting to State aid as defined under Article 87(1) EC. In addition, the Commission notes that Kingston Communication is likely to benefit from a similar tax treatment than BT.

| 53. | It is therefore necessary to determine if such an aid could be considered compatible with the common market under Article 87(2) or (3) of the EC Treaty. It appears that none of the exceptions under Article 87(2) EC Treaty apply in this case, as the measure is not aimed at the objectives listed in these provisions. |
| --- | --- |

53.

It is therefore necessary to determine if such an aid could be considered compatible with the common market under Article 87(2) or (3) of the EC Treaty. It appears that none of the exceptions under Article 87(2) EC Treaty apply in this case, as the measure is not aimed at the objectives listed in these provisions.

| 54. | Under Article 87(3)(a), an aid measure is considered compatible with the common market when it is designed to promote the economic development of areas where the standard of living is abnormally low or where there is serious underemployment. Such areas are defined by the United Kingdom's regional aid map. Since the measures are not limited to such areas, this provision does not apply. |
| --- | --- |

54.

Under Article 87(3)(a), an aid measure is considered compatible with the common market when it is designed to promote the economic development of areas where the standard of living is abnormally low or where there is serious underemployment. Such areas are defined by the United Kingdom's regional aid map. Since the measures are not limited to such areas, this provision does not apply.

| 55. | As regards the exceptions laid down in Article 87(3)(b) and (d), the aid in question is not intended to promote the execution of an important project of common European interest or to remedy a serious disturbance in the economy of the United Kingdom, nor is it intended to promote culture or heritage conservation. |
| --- | --- |

55.

As regards the exceptions laid down in Article 87(3)(b) and (d), the aid in question is not intended to promote the execution of an important project of common European interest or to remedy a serious disturbance in the economy of the United Kingdom, nor is it intended to promote culture or heritage conservation.

| 56. | Finally, it is necessary to examine if the aid can qualify for the exception laid down in Article 87(3)(c) which states that an aid may be considered compatible with the common market where it facilitates the development of certain economic activities or of certain economic areas and does not adversely affect trading conditions to an extent contrary to the common interest. |
| --- | --- |

56.

Finally, it is necessary to examine if the aid can qualify for the exception laid down in Article 87(3)(c) which states that an aid may be considered compatible with the common market where it facilitates the development of certain economic activities or of certain economic areas and does not adversely affect trading conditions to an extent contrary to the common interest.

| 57. | The preferential tax treatment does not seem to be related to investment or to job creation and constitutes a permanent relief from charges that should be normally met by these companies in the course of their business. The measure could, at this stage, be considered as an operating aid scheme, the benefits of which will cease as soon as it is withdrawn. According to the constant practice of the Commission, such aid cannot be considered to facilitate the development of certain economic activities or of certain economic areas. |
| --- | --- |

57.

The preferential tax treatment does not seem to be related to investment or to job creation and constitutes a permanent relief from charges that should be normally met by these companies in the course of their business. The measure could, at this stage, be considered as an operating aid scheme, the benefits of which will cease as soon as it is withdrawn. According to the constant practice of the Commission, such aid cannot be considered to facilitate the development of certain economic activities or of certain economic areas.

| 58. | Since, assuming that the measure qualifies as State aid, it would not seem to qualify for any of the exceptions provided for in the Treaty, the Commission doubts that it could be considered compatible with the common market. |
| --- | --- |

58.

Since, assuming that the measure qualifies as State aid, it would not seem to qualify for any of the exceptions provided for in the Treaty, the Commission doubts that it could be considered compatible with the common market.

6.   CONCLUSION

| 59. | In the light of the foregoing considerations, the Commission, acting under the procedure laid down in Article 88(2) of the EC Treaty, requests that the United Kingdom submit its comments and provide all such information as may help to assess the aid/measures to BT and Kingston Communications, within one month of the date of receipt of this letter. |
| --- | --- |

59.

In the light of the foregoing considerations, the Commission, acting under the procedure laid down in Article 88(2) of the EC Treaty, requests that the United Kingdom submit its comments and provide all such information as may help to assess the aid/measures to BT and Kingston Communications, within one month of the date of receipt of this letter.

| 60. | The Commission is in particular interested to receive the conclusions of the review of the system undertaken by the Department of Trade and Industry or details of the ongoing discussions and any working papers on this matter. In addition, it would like to receive the details of the agreement between the VOA and BT, the VOA and Kingston, concluded in 1995, applicable for the 1995-2000 period and especially the economic modelling behind the valuation and the justifications (including data on relevant revenues etc.) for any subsequent concessions made during the settlement. Similarly, the Commission would like to receive the details of BT's and Kingston's 2000 valuation, applicable for the 2000-05 period. Furthermore, the Commission is interested in tax levels and relevant revenue data for Vtesse and other alternative operators, including Cable and Wireless. It also requests that your authorities forward a copy of this letter to the potential recipients of the aid. |
| --- | --- |

60.

The Commission is in particular interested to receive the conclusions of the review of the system undertaken by the Department of Trade and Industry or details of the ongoing discussions and any working papers on this matter. In addition, it would like to receive the details of the agreement between the VOA and BT, the VOA and Kingston, concluded in 1995, applicable for the 1995-2000 period and especially the economic modelling behind the valuation and the justifications (including data on relevant revenues etc.) for any subsequent concessions made during the settlement. Similarly, the Commission would like to receive the details of BT's and Kingston's 2000 valuation, applicable for the 2000-05 period. Furthermore, the Commission is interested in tax levels and relevant revenue data for Vtesse and other alternative operators, including Cable and Wireless. It also requests that your authorities forward a copy of this letter to the potential recipients of the aid.

| 61. | The Commission wishes to remind the United Kingdom that Article 88(3) of the EC Treaty has a suspensory effect, and, that Article 14 of Council Regulation (EC) No 659/1999 provides that all unlawful aid may be recovered from the recipient.» |
| --- | --- |

61.

The Commission wishes to remind the United Kingdom that Article 88(3) of the EC Treaty has a suspensory effect, and, that Article 14 of Council Regulation (EC) No 659/1999 provides that all unlawful aid may be recovered from the recipient.»

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(1)  Property used for business as opposed to residential purposes.

1

(2)  “Business Rates — An Introduction”, Valuation Office Agency.

2

(3)  Local government finance in the UK is a devolved matter. The UK Government is therefore only responsible for the rating system in England. Rates in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland are the responsibility of the Devolved Administrations. Pre-devolution legislation largely applies in England and Wales, where the system is very similar. Therefore the description primarily covers the situation that exists there. However, the situation in Scotland is broadly similar.

3

(4)  For telecommunications properties that are entered on Local Rating Lists, this is done in the area where it is considered by the VOA that the greatest proportion of rateable value resides.

4

(5)  Except in a revaluation year, the multiplier can not increase by more than the rate of increase of the Retail Price Index, South Oxford Council, www.southoxon.gov.uk

5

(6)  The multiplier in percent was 43,2 1995/6, 44,9 1996/97, 45,8 1997/98, 47,4 1998/99, 48,9 1999/00, 41,6 2000/1, 43,0 2001/02, 43,7 2002/03, 44,4 2003/04, 45,6 2004/5.

6

(7)  UK fiscal year 2003/4 covers the period 1 April 2003 — 31 March 2004.

7

(8)  www.voa.gov.uk

8

(9)  Economic circumstances are taken as at the “antecedent valuation date”, while physical factors are taken as at the date of completing the rating list.

9

(10)  Schedule 6 of the Local Government Finance Act on valuation of non-domestic hereditament, www.hmso.gov.uk

10

(11)  Four tests of occupancy as established in John Laing and Son, Ltd. V. Kingswood Assessment Committee and Others [1948] 2 KB 116.

11

(12)  Statutory Instrument 2000/540, Valuation for Rating (Plant and Machinery) (England) Regulations 2000 N.540, Class 3 (4), www.hmso.gov.uk

12

(13)  The main provisions apply to cables, fibres and wires that are outside the building, with those inside excluded from rateability.

13

(14)  Brief Overview of the Telecoms Rating System for the purposes of the Broadband Stakeholders Group, Alan Roy Bradford CEO/VOA, 9 June 2003

14

(15)  Electric Telegraph Co v Salford Overseers, op. cit. footnote 14.

15

(16)  Most of the independent telecom companies were acquired by the General Post Office around 1912, except what is now Kingston Communications, which remained in the control of the local government in Hull.

16

(17)  Later renamed Cable &Wireless, which since has been divided into Cable & Wireless UK and ntl. See also supra paragraph 28.

17

(18)  Telecommunications Cable Networks Rating Review, presentation by Alan Roy Bradford, Valuation Office Agency, 25 June 2004.

18

(19)  The LGFA came into force in 1990, but assets were still valued using the prescribed formulae during 1990-95 since, allegedly, given the tight time frame the valuations could not be ready for this five year valuation period.

19

(20)  Op. cit. footnote 14.

20

(21)  Assuming the tenant undertook to pay the usual tenant's share and to bear the costs of the repairs and insurance and other expenses (if any) necessary to maintain the hereditament in a state to command rent.

21

(22)  The Receipts and Expenditure Method of Valuation of Non-Domestic Properties, A Guidance Note, RICS Books.

22

(23)  At the statutory rate of 5,5 % for the 2000 Rating List.

23

(24)  The Contractor's Basis of Valuation for Rating Purposes, a Guidance Note, RICS Books.

24

(25)  GBP 445 million for England and GBP 25 million for Wales.

25

(26)  Based on Total Receipts of about GBP 10,199 million as stated in the 1995 Central Rating List Assessment for BT, CVO Analysis of Agreed Rateable Value, Equated Figures.

26

(27)  GBP 467 million for England and GBP 26 million for Wales.

27

(28)  Apparently BT's current list valuation, with effect from 1 April 2003, is about GBP 472 million (GBP 447,5 million for England and GBP 24,9 million for Wales) but appeals are outstanding. It is unclear to the Commission whether this is the case, and if it is the case, why there has been a new valuation in April 2003 resulting in lower rateable values than those determined in the 2000 valuation.

28

(29)  Paragraph 2(7) of Schedule 6 to the Local Government Finance Act 1988 allows for alterations to be made to a Rateable List still in force in certain cases, for instance in the case of matters affecting “the physical state or physical enjoyment of the hereditament” or “the mode or category of occupation of the hereditament”.

29

(30)  Since 1998 it also provides services to business customers in East Yorkshire where it is present on the market as an alternative provider.

30

(31)  Espicom Business Intelligence: UK Telecommunications Market, 09/2003.

31

(32)  BT and Kingston Communications in Hull do not benefit from this allowance, since it is only applied to those assessed by the “Tone of the List” method.

32

(33)  Letter from VOA to Complainant, 11 March 2004.

33

(34)  Recurring revenues include service revenues but exclude installation revenues. Given that Vtesse's operations only started in 2002, such distinction seems reasonable to allow for comparison with BT. Estimate for fiscal year 2004/05 is based on three quarter figures.

34

(35)  Op. cit. footnote 31.

35

(36)  Except the cable TV companies, which according to the knowledge of the Commission, are valued using a different method (based on “homes passed”) than the four described in this decision to open the formal investigative procedure.

36

(37)  UKCTA submission of 23 October 2003 to the Hearing on Broadband by the Trade and Industry Sub-Committee appointed by the House of Commons.

37

(38)  Effect of Property Rating on Competition in the Market for Fixed Line Telecommunications Services in the UK: Proposed options for the future, paper drafted by alternative telecommunications providers, 12 July 2002.

38

(39)  4 % estimated for England based on 2001 revenues, op. cit. footnote 38.

39

(40)  OJ C 384, 10.12.1998, p. 3-9.

40

(41)  VOA's statement at the Berkshire Valuation Tribunal Hearing, 25 March 2004.

41

(42)  Judgement of the Court of Justice in Case C-308/01 of 29 April 2004 concerning Gil Insurance Ltd and Joint cases T-346/99, T-347/99, T-348/99 point 58 onwards.

42

(43)  Commission Decision of 17 February 2003 No C15/2002 on Belgian Coordination Centres (OJ L 282, 30.10.2003) and No C51/2001 on Dutch international financing activities (OJ L 180, 18.7.2003).

43

(44)  See footnote 36.

44

(45)  Directive 2002/22/EC on Universal Service and Users' Rights relating to electronic communications networks and services.

45

(46)  Op. cit. footnote 14.

46

(47)  According to the UK authorities, the VOA needs to obtain BT's consent to release to the Commission the relevant documentation which served for BT's valuation. In addition, it is said that BT itself arrived at its own valuation by the “Contractor's Basis”method but the VOA is not in possession of this valuation.

47

Contractor's Basis

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III Informaciones

Comisión

| 12.3.2005 | ES | Diario Oficial de la Unión Europea | C 62/19 |
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12.3.2005

ES

Diario Oficial de la Unión Europea

C 62/19

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UK-Greenock: Explotación de servicios aéreos regulares

Concurso convocado por Irlanda de conformidad con lo dispuesto en la letra d) del apartado 1 del artículo 4 del Reglamento (CEE) no 2408/92 del Consejo para la explotación de servicios aéreos regulares entre Galway/Na Minna y las islas Aran

(2005/C 62/09)

(Texto pertinente a efectos del EEE)

1.   Introducción: Irlanda ha decidido imponer obligaciones de servicio público, a partir del 1.8.2005, en los servicios aéreos regulares entre Galway/Na Minna y las islas Aran, en aplicación de lo dispuesto en la letra a) del apartado 1 del artículo 4 del Reglamento (CEE) no 2408/92 del Consejo de 23.7.1992, relativo al acceso de las compañías aéreas de la Comunidad a las rutas aéreas intracomunitarias. Las normas correspondientes a dichas obligaciones de servicio público se publicaron en el
  Diario Oficial de las Comunidades Europeas C 281 de 5.10.2001, p. 5, y se modificaron en el
  Diario Oficial de la Unión Europea C 61 de 11.3.2005.

Con arreglo al procedimiento de la letra d) del apartado 1 del artículo 4 del Reglamento mencionado, Irlanda ha decidido que, si a 1.7.2005 ninguna compañía aérea ha iniciado o está por iniciar servicios aéreos regulares mencionados de conformidad con las obligaciones de servicio público impuestas y sin solicitar compensación alguna, limitará el acceso a esa ruta a una única compañía y concederá mediante concurso el derecho de prestar dichos servicios aéreos a partir del 1.8.2005.

2.   Objeto del concurso: Ofrecer, a partir del 1.8.2005, servicios aéreos regulares entre Galway/Na Minna y las islas Aran de conformidad con las obligaciones de servicio público impuestas para dicha ruta, publicadas en el
  Diario Oficial de las Comunidades Europeas C 281 de 5.10.2001, p. 5, y modificadas en el
  Diario Oficial de la Unión Europea C 61 de 11.3.2005.

3.   Participación en el concurso: Podrán participar todas las compañías aéreas con una licencia de explotación válida expedida por un Estado miembro de acuerdo con lo dispuesto en el Reglamento (CEE) no 2407/92 del Consejo, de 23.7.1992, sobre la concesión de licencias a las compañías aéreas.

4.   Procedimiento del concurso: El presente concurso se ajusta a lo dispuesto en las letras d), e), f), g), h) e i) del apartado 1 del artículo 4 del Reglamento (CEE) no 2408/92.

5.   Pliego de condiciones: El pliego de condiciones completo, que consta del impreso de solicitud, de las especificaciones, de una nota informativa y del texto original de las obligaciones de servicio público, publicadas en el
  Diario Oficial de las Comunidades Europeas C 281 de 5.10.2001, p. 5, y modificadas en el
  Diario Oficial de la Unión Europea C 61 de 11.3.2005, puede obtenerse gratuitamente de la entidad adjudicadora, en la siguiente dirección:

Saltire Management Ltd., Victoria House Business Centre, East Blackhall Street, Greenock PA15 1HD.

Las compañías aéreas deberán incluir en sus ofertas documentos que acrediten su situación financiera (balance anual, y el estado de cuentas auditado de los tres últimos ejercicios, así como volumen de negocios y de beneficios antes de impuestos), experiencia previa y capacidad técnica para suministrar los servicios descritos. La entidad adjudicadora se reserva el derecho de solicitar más información sobre la situación financiera y recursos técnicos de los candidatos.

Los importes de las ofertas se expresarán en euros y toda la documentación deberá estar redactada en inglés o gaélico. El contrato estará sujeto al Derecho irlandés y a la jurisdicción de los tribunales irlandeses.

6.   Compensación económica: Las candidaturas deberán presentar el importe anual de compensación solicitado para la explotación de las obligaciones de servicio público en esa ruta durante un plazo de tres años a partir de la fecha de entrada en vigor del contrato (con un análisis para cada año). La compensación financiera deberá calcularse de acuerdo las normas mínimas exigidas.

El importe exacto de la compensación que deba abonar el Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs se determinará a posteriori y se limitará a las pérdidas reales en que haya incurrido el concursante elegido al explotar el servicio, de acuerdo con los gastos y los ingresos reales y, en su caso, el margen de beneficios, sin que se supere la cantidad mencionada en la oferta correspondiente a cada año.

El límite de la compensación concedida por uno de los años podrá ser aumentado, a discreción de la entidad adjudicadora, en caso de modificación de las condiciones de explotación. Sin perjuicio de las disposiciones que rigen la resolución del contrato, la entidad adjudicadora tendrá plenamente en cuenta, al evaluar las posibles propuestas de aumento del límite anual, los hechos nuevos que afecten a la explotación de ese que no fueron previstas o no pudieron serlo por el contratista o que se deben a factores ajenos a su control.

El Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs procederá a la adjudicación del contrato. Todos los pagos previstos se realizarán en euros y quedarán supeditatos a la recepción, por la entidad adjudicadora, de las solicitudes debidamente justificadas, junto con una certificación de los auditores de la compañía aérea de acuerdo con las condiciones del contrato.

7.   Periodo de validez, modificación y resolución del contrato: La duración del contrato será de tres años a partir del 1.8.2005 y vencerá a más tardar el 31.7.2008. Si procede, se realizará otro concurso antes de esta última fecha. Cualquier modificación o resolución del contrato de hará de acuerdo con las condiciones del contrato. Las modificaciones del servicio sólo se autorizarán previo acuerdo de la entidad adjudicadora.

8.   Sanciones en caso de incumplimiento del contrato por parte de la compañía aérea: En casos de fuerza mayor o de anulación de un vuelo por razones directamente imputables a la compañía aérea, sólo se abonará una compensación por los gastos en que haya incurrido efectivamente la compañía, de haberlos, derivados de la asistencia a los pasajeros afectados por la anulación de dichos vuelos. La entidad adjudicataria se reserva el derecho a notificar la resolución del contrato si, en vista de la idoneidad del servicio prestado por la compañía aérea y en particular del número de vuelos anulados por razones directamente imputables a la compañía aérea, opina que no se están cumpliendo satisfactoriamente los criterios de la obligación de servicio público.

9.   Plazo de presentación de ofertas: Un mes a partir de la publicación de la presente comunicación en el Suplemento del Diario Oficial de la Unión Europea.

10.   Normas generales de presentación: Las ofertas deberán enviarse a la dirección indicada en el punto 5 con la inscripción «EASP Tender» (oferta EASP) antes de las 12.00 horas (hora de Irlanda) de la fecha mencionada en el punto 9.

11.   Validez del concurso: Con arreglo a lo dispuesto en la primera frase de la letra d) del apartado 1 del artículo 4 del Reglamento (CEE) no 2408/92, la validez del presente concurso estará supeditada a la condición de que ninguna compañía comunitaria presente, para el 1.7.2005, un programa de explotación de la ruta, de conformidad con las obligaciones de servicio público impuestas, sin percibir compensación económica alguna.

12.   Freedom of Information Act (Ley de la libertad de información), 1997 y 2003: El Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs se compromete a velar por que se mantenga la confidencialidad de cualquier información aportada por los concursantes de acuerdo con sus obligaciones conforme a la legislación, incluida la Freedom of Information (FOI) Act de 1997 y 2003. Si los concursantes desean que no se revele ninguna información presentada por ellos en sus ofertas a causa de su carácter comercial confidencial, deberán indicar al presentarla de qué información se trata y especificar los motivos de su carácter confidencial. El Departamento consultará a los concursantes sobre esta información de carácter confidencial antes de tomar una decisión relativa a la difusión de la información de conformidad con las disposiciones de la Freedom of Information Act. Si los concursantes consideran que ninguna información presentada por ellos tiene carácter confidencial, harán una declaración al efecto y dicha información podrá difundirse en respuesta a una petición presentada en virtud de la FOI.

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