# Europeiska unionens C 62/12 m

| | ISSN 1725-2504 |
| --- | --- |
| Europeiska unionens
  officiella tidning | C 62 |
| | |
| Svensk utgåva | Meddelanden och upplysningar | 48 årgången12 mars 2005 |

ISSN 1725-2504

Europeiska unionens

officiella tidning

C 62

Svensk utgåva

Meddelanden och upplysningar

48 årgången12 mars 2005

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| Informationsnummer | Innehållsförteckning | Sida |
| --- | --- | --- |
| | I   Meddelanden |
| | Rådet |
| 2005/C 062/1 | Rådets resolution av den 9 december 2004 om informations och kommunikationstekniken (IKT) i ett framtidsperspektiv | 1 |
| | Kommissionen |
| 2005/C 062/2 | Eurons växelkurs | 4 |
| 2005/C 062/3 | Förhandsanmälan av en koncentration (Ärende COMP/M.3745 – Severstal/Lucchini) – Ärendet kan komma att behandlas enligt förenklat förfarande (
  1
  ) | 5 |
| 2005/C 062/4 | Tillstånd till statligt stöd enligt artiklarna 87 och 88 i EG-fördraget – Fall i vilka kommissionen inte gör några invändningar (
  1
  ) | 6 |
| 2005/C 062/5 | Meddelande av den 21 januari 2005 från Maltas regering i enlighet med Europaparlamentets och rådets direktiv 94/22/EG av den 30 maj 1994 (om villkoren för beviljande och utnyttjande av tillstånd för prospektering efter samt undersökning och utvinning av kolväten) (
  1
  ) | 7 |
| 2005/C 062/6 | Meddelande av den 21 januari 2005 från Maltas regering i enlighet med Europaparlamentets och rådets direktiv 94/22/EG av den 30 maj 1994 (om villkoren för beviljande och utnyttjande av tillstånd för prospektering efter samt undersökning och utvinning av kolväten) (
  1
  ) | 8 |
| 2005/C 062/7 | Förhandsanmälan av en koncentration (Ärende COMP/M.3743 – DuPont/DDE) – Ärendet kan komma att handläggas enligt ett förenklat förfarande (
  1
  ) | 9 |
| 2005/C 062/8 | Statligt stöd – Förenade kungariket – Statligt stöd nr C 4/2005 (f.d. NN 57/2004) – Fatighetsskatt på telekommunikationsinfrastruktur – Uppmaning att inkomma med synpunkter enligt artikel 88.2 i EG-fördraget (
  1
  ) | 10 |

Informationsnummer

Innehållsförteckning

Sida

I   Meddelanden

Rådet

2005/C 062/1

Rådets resolution av den 9 december 2004 om informations och kommunikationstekniken (IKT) i ett framtidsperspektiv

1

Kommissionen

2005/C 062/2

Eurons växelkurs

4

2005/C 062/3

Förhandsanmälan av en koncentration (Ärende COMP/M.3745 – Severstal/Lucchini) – Ärendet kan komma att behandlas enligt förenklat förfarande (
  1
  )

1

5

2005/C 062/4

Tillstånd till statligt stöd enligt artiklarna 87 och 88 i EG-fördraget – Fall i vilka kommissionen inte gör några invändningar (
  1
  )

1

6

2005/C 062/5

Meddelande av den 21 januari 2005 från Maltas regering i enlighet med Europaparlamentets och rådets direktiv 94/22/EG av den 30 maj 1994 (om villkoren för beviljande och utnyttjande av tillstånd för prospektering efter samt undersökning och utvinning av kolväten) (
  1
  )

1

7

2005/C 062/6

Meddelande av den 21 januari 2005 från Maltas regering i enlighet med Europaparlamentets och rådets direktiv 94/22/EG av den 30 maj 1994 (om villkoren för beviljande och utnyttjande av tillstånd för prospektering efter samt undersökning och utvinning av kolväten) (
  1
  )

1

8

2005/C 062/7

Förhandsanmälan av en koncentration (Ärende COMP/M.3743 – DuPont/DDE) – Ärendet kan komma att handläggas enligt ett förenklat förfarande (
  1
  )

1

9

2005/C 062/8

Statligt stöd – Förenade kungariket – Statligt stöd nr C 4/2005 (f.d. NN 57/2004) – Fatighetsskatt på telekommunikationsinfrastruktur – Uppmaning att inkomma med synpunkter enligt artikel 88.2 i EG-fördraget (
  1
  )

1

10

| | III   Upplysningar |
| --- | --- |
| | Kommissionen |
| 2005/C 062/9 | UK-Greenock: Bedrivande av regelbunden flygtrafik – Anbudsinfrodran utlyst av Irland, i enlighet met artikel 4.1 d i rådets förordning (EEG), avseende regelbunden lufttrafik mellan Galway/Na Minna och Aranöarna (
  1
  ) | 19 |

III   Upplysningar

Kommissionen

2005/C 062/9

UK-Greenock: Bedrivande av regelbunden flygtrafik – Anbudsinfrodran utlyst av Irland, i enlighet met artikel 4.1 d i rådets förordning (EEG), avseende regelbunden lufttrafik mellan Galway/Na Minna och Aranöarna (
  1
  )

1

19

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| | (1)   Text av betydelse för EES |

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(1)   Text av betydelse för EES

1

| SV | |
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SV

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I Meddelanden

Rådet

| 12.3.2005 | SV | Europeiska unionens officiella tidning | C 62/1 |
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12.3.2005

SV

Europeiska unionens officiella tidning

C 62/1

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RÅDETS RESOLUTION

av den 9 december 2004

om informations och kommunikationstekniken (IKT) i ett framtidsperspektiv

(2005/C 62/01)

EUROPEISKA UNIONENS RÅD

välkomnar kommissionens meddelande om viktiga frågor för det europeiska informationssamhället efter 2005, och kommissionens meddelande om mobila bredbandstjänster,

erinrar om

| 1. | ordförandeskapets slutsatser från Europeiska rådet i Lissabon den 23–24 mars 2000, |
| --- | --- |

1.

ordförandeskapets slutsatser från Europeiska rådet i Lissabon den 23–24 mars 2000,

| 2. | ordförandeskapets slutsatser från Europeiska rådets möte i juni 2002, i vilka målen för handlingsplanen eEurope 2005 godkänns, |
| --- | --- |

2.

ordförandeskapets slutsatser från Europeiska rådets möte i juni 2002, i vilka målen för handlingsplanen eEurope 2005 godkänns,

| 3. | rådets resolution av den 18 februari 2003 om genomförandet av handlingsplanen eEurope 2005, |
| --- | --- |

3.

rådets resolution av den 18 februari 2003 om genomförandet av handlingsplanen eEurope 2005,

| 4. | ordförandeskapets slutsatser från Europeiska rådets vårmöte 2003, i vilka de 15 medlemsstaterna uppmanas att införa nationella bredbandsstrategier före utgången av 2003, |
| --- | --- |

4.

ordförandeskapets slutsatser från Europeiska rådets vårmöte 2003, i vilka de 15 medlemsstaterna uppmanas att införa nationella bredbandsstrategier före utgången av 2003,

| 5. | rådets slutsatser från den 20 november 2003 om e-förvaltningens betydelse för Europas framtid, |
| --- | --- |

5.

rådets slutsatser från den 20 november 2003 om e-förvaltningens betydelse för Europas framtid,

| 6. | ordförandeskapets slutsatser från Europeiska rådets vårmöte 2004, i vilka behovet av nya strategier på området elektroniska kommunikationer betonas, |
| --- | --- |

6.

ordförandeskapets slutsatser från Europeiska rådets vårmöte 2004, i vilka behovet av nya strategier på området elektroniska kommunikationer betonas,

| 7. | rådets slutsatser av den 8 mars 2004 om den senaste utvecklingen inom sektorn för elektronisk kommunikation i Europa, i vilka vikten av IKT för tillväxt och konkurrenskraft bekräftas, |
| --- | --- |

7.

rådets slutsatser av den 8 mars 2004 om den senaste utvecklingen inom sektorn för elektronisk kommunikation i Europa, i vilka vikten av IKT för tillväxt och konkurrenskraft bekräftas,

| 8. | rådets slutsatser från den 8 mars 2004 om halvtidsöversyn av handlingsplanen eEurope 2005, i vilka det bekräftas att målen för eEurope 2005 fortfarande gäller i samband med utvidgningen, |
| --- | --- |

8.

rådets slutsatser från den 8 mars 2004 om halvtidsöversyn av handlingsplanen eEurope 2005, i vilka det bekräftas att målen för eEurope 2005 fortfarande gäller i samband med utvidgningen,

| 9. | rådets slutsatser av den 10 juni 2004 om en revidering av handlingsplanen eEurope 2005 och nationella bredbandsstrategier, |
| --- | --- |

9.

rådets slutsatser av den 10 juni 2004 om en revidering av handlingsplanen eEurope 2005 och nationella bredbandsstrategier,

| 10. | ordförandeskapets slutsatser från Europeiska rådet den 4–5 november 2004, i vilka rapporten från den högnivågrupp som leds av Wim Kok välkomnas, |
| --- | --- |

10.

ordförandeskapets slutsatser från Europeiska rådet den 4–5 november 2004, i vilka rapporten från den högnivågrupp som leds av Wim Kok välkomnas,

| 11. | riktlinjerna från högnivåmötet av den 29–30 september 2004 om IKT i ett framtidsperspektiv, |
| --- | --- |

11.

riktlinjerna från högnivåmötet av den 29–30 september 2004 om IKT i ett framtidsperspektiv,

erkänner

| 1. | att det, för att bidra till att uppnå Lissabonmålen från mars 2000, finns ett tydligt behov av att på europeisk och nationell nivå se över och, om nödvändigt, förbättra politiken för att öka utnyttjandet och utvecklingen av IKT i hela samhället, |
| --- | --- |

1.

att det, för att bidra till att uppnå Lissabonmålen från mars 2000, finns ett tydligt behov av att på europeisk och nationell nivå se över och, om nödvändigt, förbättra politiken för att öka utnyttjandet och utvecklingen av IKT i hela samhället,

| 2. | att IKT-sektorn i sig är en viktig ekonomisk sektor, som inbegriper informationsteknik, elektronisk kommunikation och den audiovisuella industrin, med en betydande potential för framtida tillväxt och med inverkan på så gott som all övrig ekonomisk verksamhet, |
| --- | --- |

2.

att IKT-sektorn i sig är en viktig ekonomisk sektor, som inbegriper informationsteknik, elektronisk kommunikation och den audiovisuella industrin, med en betydande potential för framtida tillväxt och med inverkan på så gott som all övrig ekonomisk verksamhet,

| 3. | att användningen av IKT direkt och i hög grad påverkar den europeiska ekonomins produktivitet och konkurrenskraft, |
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3.

att användningen av IKT direkt och i hög grad påverkar den europeiska ekonomins produktivitet och konkurrenskraft,

| 4. | att IKT är ett värdefullt verktyg för att stimulera social och geografisk sammanhållning och medborgarskap i ett integrerat Europa, för att främja kulturella identiteter, social integration och språklig mångfald och öka öppenhet och deltagande i samhället, |
| --- | --- |

4.

att IKT är ett värdefullt verktyg för att stimulera social och geografisk sammanhållning och medborgarskap i ett integrerat Europa, för att främja kulturella identiteter, social integration och språklig mångfald och öka öppenhet och deltagande i samhället,

| 5. | att en övergripande och heltäckande IKT-politik i hög grad kan bidra till EU:s mål för tillväxt, produktivitet och konkurrenskraft genom att skapa högkvalitativa arbeten och förbättra den allmänna ekonomiska utvecklingen och genom att modernisera offentliga tjänster och uppmuntra moderniserade affärsmodeller både inom den offentliga och den privata sektorn, |
| --- | --- |

5.

att en övergripande och heltäckande IKT-politik i hög grad kan bidra till EU:s mål för tillväxt, produktivitet och konkurrenskraft genom att skapa högkvalitativa arbeten och förbättra den allmänna ekonomiska utvecklingen och genom att modernisera offentliga tjänster och uppmuntra moderniserade affärsmodeller både inom den offentliga och den privata sektorn,

| 6. | att politiken bör utvecklas genom en fortlöpande dialog mellan offentliga myndigheter, den privata sektorn och andra intressenter för att det skall gå att hantera och dra nytta av den senaste utvecklingen på området för IKT, |
| --- | --- |

6.

att politiken bör utvecklas genom en fortlöpande dialog mellan offentliga myndigheter, den privata sektorn och andra intressenter för att det skall gå att hantera och dra nytta av den senaste utvecklingen på området för IKT,

| 7. | att EU skulle dra nytta av en innovativ och konkurrenskraftig IKT-sektor på en snabbt expanderande och allt mer konkurrenskraftig global marknad, |
| --- | --- |

7.

att EU skulle dra nytta av en innovativ och konkurrenskraftig IKT-sektor på en snabbt expanderande och allt mer konkurrenskraftig global marknad,

ANSER att det för en övergripande och heltäckande IKT-politik är relevant

En framstående IKT-sektor och innovativa företag

| — | att fortsätta att investera i solid forskning och utveckling rörande IKT, både inom den offentliga och den privata sektorn, och stärka den europeiska kompetensen inom forskning och utveckling genom att skapa en gynnsam miljö för forskning, finansiering och företagsamhet, |
| --- | --- |

—

att fortsätta att investera i solid forskning och utveckling rörande IKT, både inom den offentliga och den privata sektorn, och stärka den europeiska kompetensen inom forskning och utveckling genom att skapa en gynnsam miljö för forskning, finansiering och företagsamhet,

| — | att främja en stödjande miljö, där den fria rörligheten för kunskap och innovation stimuleras och forskningsresultat omsätts i tillämpningar och produkter med mervärde, |
| --- | --- |

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att främja en stödjande miljö, där den fria rörligheten för kunskap och innovation stimuleras och forskningsresultat omsätts i tillämpningar och produkter med mervärde,

| — | att, särskilt inom små och medelstora företag, uppmuntra ett effektivt utnyttjande av nya e-affärsprocesser och antagande av nya affärsmodeller för att utnyttja IKT:s möjligheter, |
| --- | --- |

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att, särskilt inom små och medelstora företag, uppmuntra ett effektivt utnyttjande av nya e-affärsprocesser och antagande av nya affärsmodeller för att utnyttja IKT:s möjligheter,

IKT för medborgarna och IKT-färdigheter

| — | att främja tillgång till IKT-tjänster för alla och tjänsternas tillgänglighet, bl. a. genom ökad förståelse för de potentiella fördelarna med IKT och genom att uppmuntra fortlöpande förbättring av användarvänliga tekniker och således bl. a. fortsätta att minska IT-klyftan, |
| --- | --- |

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att främja tillgång till IKT-tjänster för alla och tjänsternas tillgänglighet, bl. a. genom ökad förståelse för de potentiella fördelarna med IKT och genom att uppmuntra fortlöpande förbättring av användarvänliga tekniker och således bl. a. fortsätta att minska IT-klyftan,

| — | att uppmuntra åtgärder, som e-lärande, för att ytterligare utveckla e-färdigheter för alla, särskilt med hänsyn till den åldrande befolkningen, kön och etniskt och socialt ursprung, så att de till fullo kan utnyttja informationssamhällets möjligheter, |
| --- | --- |

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att uppmuntra åtgärder, som e-lärande, för att ytterligare utveckla e-färdigheter för alla, särskilt med hänsyn till den åldrande befolkningen, kön och etniskt och socialt ursprung, så att de till fullo kan utnyttja informationssamhällets möjligheter,

| — | att ytterligare integrera IKT på arbetsplatserna på olika sätt som gör att produktiviteten ökar och arbetets kvalitet förbättras samt att stärka IKT-delen under utbildningsprocesser, |
| --- | --- |

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att ytterligare integrera IKT på arbetsplatserna på olika sätt som gör att produktiviteten ökar och arbetets kvalitet förbättras samt att stärka IKT-delen under utbildningsprocesser,

| — | att finna strategiska svar på flyttning av arbetstillfällen, inklusive genom att främja ökad anpassningsförmåga hos arbetstagare och företag och flexibilitet i kombination med trygghet på arbetsmarknaden, |
| --- | --- |

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att finna strategiska svar på flyttning av arbetstillfällen, inklusive genom att främja ökad anpassningsförmåga hos arbetstagare och företag och flexibilitet i kombination med trygghet på arbetsmarknaden,

IKT för offentliga tjänster

| — | att, vid behov på Europanivå, godkänna och genomföra integrerade tillvägagångssätt vid användningen av tillämpningar inom e-förvaltning, särskilt genom att stimulera till samarbete och utbyte av bästa metoder, |
| --- | --- |

—

att, vid behov på Europanivå, godkänna och genomföra integrerade tillvägagångssätt vid användningen av tillämpningar inom e-förvaltning, särskilt genom att stimulera till samarbete och utbyte av bästa metoder,

| — | att med beaktande av behovet av organisatorisk anpassning utveckla en övergripande strategi för att utnyttja möjligheterna med IKT i syfte att uppnå en prestandamässigt bättre och effektivare offentlig sektor, samtidigt som onlinetjänsterna skräddarsys efter företagens och medborgarnas behov och den administrativa bördan minskas, särskilt genom att hänsyn tas till behovet av gränsöverskridande europeiska tjänster, |
| --- | --- |

—

att med beaktande av behovet av organisatorisk anpassning utveckla en övergripande strategi för att utnyttja möjligheterna med IKT i syfte att uppnå en prestandamässigt bättre och effektivare offentlig sektor, samtidigt som onlinetjänsterna skräddarsys efter företagens och medborgarnas behov och den administrativa bördan minskas, särskilt genom att hänsyn tas till behovet av gränsöverskridande europeiska tjänster,

| — | att utveckla tjänster på e-hälsovårdsområdet över hela Europa och därvid särskilt uppmärksamma standardiserings- och interoperabilitetsfrågor för att optimera tillhandahållandet av behandling och vård för patienter, |
| --- | --- |

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att utveckla tjänster på e-hälsovårdsområdet över hela Europa och därvid särskilt uppmärksamma standardiserings- och interoperabilitetsfrågor för att optimera tillhandahållandet av behandling och vård för patienter,

Innehåll i och utveckling av produkter och tjänster

| — | att främja utveckling och distribution av ett rikt och kreativt innehåll, t.ex. genom att uppmuntra återbruk av information från den offentliga sektorn, |
| --- | --- |

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att främja utveckling och distribution av ett rikt och kreativt innehåll, t.ex. genom att uppmuntra återbruk av information från den offentliga sektorn,

| — | att vid behov avlägsna hinder för tillgång till innehåll på olika plattformar genom att exempelvis uppmuntra sökande efter praktiska lösningar när det gäller förvaltning av digitala rättigheter, |
| --- | --- |

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att vid behov avlägsna hinder för tillgång till innehåll på olika plattformar genom att exempelvis uppmuntra sökande efter praktiska lösningar när det gäller förvaltning av digitala rättigheter,

| — | att stödja uppkomsten av nya tjänster på den utvidgade inre marknaden genom att förbättra och möjliggöra en lagstiftningsmiljö som tar hänsyn till ny utveckling, t.ex. tekniska innovationer, |
| --- | --- |

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att stödja uppkomsten av nya tjänster på den utvidgade inre marknaden genom att förbättra och möjliggöra en lagstiftningsmiljö som tar hänsyn till ny utveckling, t.ex. tekniska innovationer,

| — | att som svar på den ökande mängden IKT-baserade tillämpningar inrätta en gynnsam miljö för att industrin och den offentliga sektorn, både i Europa och globalt, skall kunna utveckla effektiva och kompatibla lösningar, särskilt för elektronisk betalning, autentisering, identitetshantering och säkerhet, |
| --- | --- |

—

att som svar på den ökande mängden IKT-baserade tillämpningar inrätta en gynnsam miljö för att industrin och den offentliga sektorn, både i Europa och globalt, skall kunna utveckla effektiva och kompatibla lösningar, särskilt för elektronisk betalning, autentisering, identitetshantering och säkerhet,

Uppbyggnad av nätverk

| — | att ombesörja ett konsekvent och effektivt regelsystem för elektronisk kommunikation vilket främjar konkurrens, investeringar och innovation, |
| --- | --- |

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att ombesörja ett konsekvent och effektivt regelsystem för elektronisk kommunikation vilket främjar konkurrens, investeringar och innovation,

| — | att stödja utveckling och användning av öppna standarder och att förbättra kompatibiliteten mellan nätverk och tjänster, |
| --- | --- |

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att stödja utveckling och användning av öppna standarder och att förbättra kompatibiliteten mellan nätverk och tjänster,

| — | att med beaktande av principen om teknisk neutralitet stödja en mer omfattande användning av och tillgång till bredband, särskilt genom att främja konkurrerande plattformar och kompatibla nätverk, |
| --- | --- |

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att med beaktande av principen om teknisk neutralitet stödja en mer omfattande användning av och tillgång till bredband, särskilt genom att främja konkurrerande plattformar och kompatibla nätverk,

| — | att fortsätta att bedöma olika modeller för spektrumförvaltning för att åstadkomma en mer flexibel och effektiv användning av spektrum på europeisk och global nivå, med beaktande av utvecklingen av ny och innovativ teknik och sådana metoder som utnyttjar marknadsmekanismerna, |
| --- | --- |

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att fortsätta att bedöma olika modeller för spektrumförvaltning för att åstadkomma en mer flexibel och effektiv användning av spektrum på europeisk och global nivå, med beaktande av utvecklingen av ny och innovativ teknik och sådana metoder som utnyttjar marknadsmekanismerna,

Tillit och säkerhet

| — | att utarbeta en sammanhängande strategi för behandling av alla relevanta frågor som rör tillit, att ytterligare stärka en nätverks- och informationssäkerhetskultur i syfte att främja tillförlitlig och effektiv elektronisk kommunikation samt bidra till utvecklingen av säkra transeuropeiska tjänster, |
| --- | --- |

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att utarbeta en sammanhängande strategi för behandling av alla relevanta frågor som rör tillit, att ytterligare stärka en nätverks- och informationssäkerhetskultur i syfte att främja tillförlitlig och effektiv elektronisk kommunikation samt bidra till utvecklingen av säkra transeuropeiska tjänster,

| — | att planera åtgärder för att bekämpa olagligt och skadligt innehåll och sådant som inte är efterfrågat på Internet, särskilt när det rör barn, samt skräppost, i samarbete med alla berörda parter, även på internationell nivå, |
| --- | --- |

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att planera åtgärder för att bekämpa olagligt och skadligt innehåll och sådant som inte är efterfrågat på Internet, särskilt när det rör barn, samt skräppost, i samarbete med alla berörda parter, även på internationell nivå,

| — | att garantera en lämplig nivå av nätverks- och informationssäkerhet för upptagning och användning av nya tjänster och att övrig infrastruktur med beroende av IKT fungerar väl, med beaktande av de aspekter som rör tillit och privatliv, |
| --- | --- |

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att garantera en lämplig nivå av nätverks- och informationssäkerhet för upptagning och användning av nya tjänster och att övrig infrastruktur med beroende av IKT fungerar väl, med beaktande av de aspekter som rör tillit och privatliv,

UPPMANAR MEDLEMSSTATERNA att aktivt se över och förbättra sina strategiska riktlinjer och insatser för genomförande för att bidra till en ny agenda för informationssamhället framemot 2010,

UPPMANAR KOMMISSIONEN

| 1. | att fortsätta övervakningen av regelverket mot bakgrund av pågående och framtida utveckling av teknik och marknad samt vid behov lägga fram förslag för att behålla en lämplig lagstiftningsmiljö som underlättar effektiv konkurrens och befrämjar fler investeringar, mer innovation, nya tjänster och lägre priser, |
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1.

att fortsätta övervakningen av regelverket mot bakgrund av pågående och framtida utveckling av teknik och marknad samt vid behov lägga fram förslag för att behålla en lämplig lagstiftningsmiljö som underlättar effektiv konkurrens och befrämjar fler investeringar, mer innovation, nya tjänster och lägre priser,

| 2. | att analysera IKT-sektorns konkurrenskraft och med beaktande av IKT:s konsekvenser för den europeiska ekonomin inleda det förberedande arbetet med uppföljningen av handlingsplanen eEurope 2005 som en betydelsefull del av den nya agendan för informationssamhället efter 2005, |
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2.

att analysera IKT-sektorns konkurrenskraft och med beaktande av IKT:s konsekvenser för den europeiska ekonomin inleda det förberedande arbetet med uppföljningen av handlingsplanen eEurope 2005 som en betydelsefull del av den nya agendan för informationssamhället efter 2005,

| 3. | att erkänna IKT:s betydelse för det kommande förslaget till nästa ramprogram för forskning, |
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3.

att erkänna IKT:s betydelse för det kommande förslaget till nästa ramprogram för forskning,

UPPMANAR INDUSTRIN att även i fortsättningen förse marknaden med innovativa, nya IKT-tillämpningar och -tjänster samt framställa nytt, attraktivt innehåll, bl.a. genom att utnyttja Europas kulturella mångfald och flerspråkighet,

UPPMANAR ALLA INTRENSSENTER att ytterligare integrera IKT i sin respektive verksamhet för att till fullo skörda frukterna av IKT,

LÄGGER FRAM denna resolution som ett bidrag i debatten Europeiska rådets om halvtidsöversyn av Lissabonstrategin vid dess vårmöte 2005.

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Kommissionen

| 12.3.2005 | SV | Europeiska unionens officiella tidning | C 62/4 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.3.2005

SV

Europeiska unionens officiella tidning

C 62/4

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Eurons växelkurs (1)

11 mars 2005

(2005/C 62/02)

1 euro=

| | Valuta | Kurs |
| --- | --- | --- |
| USD | US-dollar | 1,3416 |
| JPY | japansk yen | 139,67 |
| DKK | dansk krona | 7,4462 |
| GBP | pund sterling | 0,69865 |
| SEK | svensk krona | 9,0630 |
| CHF | schweizisk franc | 1,5500 |
| ISK | isländsk krona | 79,27 |
| NOK | norsk krona | 8,177 |
| BGN | bulgarisk lev | 1,9559 |
| CYP | cypriotiskt pund | 0,5825 |
| CZK | tjeckisk koruna | 29,475 |
| EEK | estnisk krona | 15,6466 |
| HUF | ungersk forint | 243,20 |
| LTL | litauisk litas | 3,4528 |
| LVL | lettisk lats | 0,6960 |
| MTL | maltesisk lira | 0,4330 |
| PLN | polsk zloty | 3,9519 |
| ROL | rumänsk leu | 35 885 |
| SIT | slovensk tolar | 239,72 |
| SKK | slovakisk koruna | 37,649 |
| TRY | turkisk lira | 1,7002 |
| AUD | australisk dollar | 1,6944 |
| CAD | kanadensisk dollar | 1,6176 |
| HKD | Hongkongdollar | 10,4638 |
| NZD | nyzeeländsk dollar | 1,8173 |
| SGD | singaporiansk dollar | 2,1733 |
| KRW | sydkoreansk won | 1 342,14 |
| ZAR | sydafrikansk rand | 7,8354 |

Valuta

Kurs

USD

US-dollar

1,3416

JPY

japansk yen

139,67

DKK

dansk krona

7,4462

GBP

pund sterling

0,69865

SEK

svensk krona

9,0630

CHF

schweizisk franc

1,5500

ISK

isländsk krona

79,27

NOK

norsk krona

8,177

BGN

bulgarisk lev

1,9559

CYP

cypriotiskt pund

0,5825

CZK

tjeckisk koruna

29,475

EEK

estnisk krona

15,6466

HUF

ungersk forint

243,20

LTL

litauisk litas

3,4528

LVL

lettisk lats

0,6960

MTL

maltesisk lira

0,4330

PLN

polsk zloty

3,9519

ROL

rumänsk leu

35 885

SIT

slovensk tolar

239,72

SKK

slovakisk koruna

37,649

TRY

turkisk lira

1,7002

AUD

australisk dollar

1,6944

CAD

kanadensisk dollar

1,6176

HKD

Hongkongdollar

10,4638

NZD

nyzeeländsk dollar

1,8173

SGD

singaporiansk dollar

2,1733

KRW

sydkoreansk won

1 342,14

ZAR

sydafrikansk rand

7,8354

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(1)

Källa: Referensväxelkurs offentliggjord av Europeiska centralbanken.

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| 12.3.2005 | SV | Europeiska unionens officiella tidning | C 62/5 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.3.2005

SV

Europeiska unionens officiella tidning

C 62/5

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Förhandsanmälan av en koncentration

(Ärende COMP/M.3745 – Severstal/Lucchini)

Ärendet kan komma att behandlas enligt förenklat förfarande

(2005/C 62/03)

(Text av betydelse för EES)

| 1. | Kommissionen mottog den 4 mars 2005 en anmälan om en föreslagen koncentration enligt artikel 4 i rådets förordning (EG) nr 139/2004 (1) genom vilken företaget ZAO Severstal Group (”Severstal”, Ryssland) förvärvar, på det sätt som avses i artikel 3.1 b i förordningen, fullständig kontroll över företaget Lucchini SpA (”Lucchini”, Italien) genom förvärv av aktier. |
| --- | --- |

1.

Kommissionen mottog den 4 mars 2005 en anmälan om en föreslagen koncentration enligt artikel 4 i rådets förordning (EG) nr 139/2004 (1) genom vilken företaget ZAO Severstal Group (”Severstal”, Ryssland) förvärvar, på det sätt som avses i artikel 3.1 b i förordningen, fullständig kontroll över företaget Lucchini SpA (”Lucchini”, Italien) genom förvärv av aktier.

| 2. | De berörda företagens affärsverksamheter är följande:






  — | Severstal: främst metallurgisk tillverkning och distribution samt diverse andra aktiviteter såsom bank, försäkring och andra sektorer; |
| --- | --- | --- |

2.

De berörda företagens affärsverksamheter är följande:

—

Severstal: främst metallurgisk tillverkning och distribution samt diverse andra aktiviteter såsom bank, försäkring och andra sektorer;

| — | Lucchini: tillverkning och försäljning av stålprodukter. |
| --- | --- |

—

Lucchini: tillverkning och försäljning av stålprodukter.

| 3. | Kommissionen har vid en preliminär granskning kommit fram till att den anmälda transaktionen kan omfattas av förordning (EG) nr 139/2004, dock med förbehållet att ett slutligt beslut fattas senare. Det bör noteras att detta ärende kan komma att behandlas i enlighet med kommissionens tillkännagivande om ett förenklat förfarande för handläggning av vissa koncentrationer enligt rådets förordning (EG) nr 139/2004 (2). |
| --- | --- |

3.

Kommissionen har vid en preliminär granskning kommit fram till att den anmälda transaktionen kan omfattas av förordning (EG) nr 139/2004, dock med förbehållet att ett slutligt beslut fattas senare. Det bör noteras att detta ärende kan komma att behandlas i enlighet med kommissionens tillkännagivande om ett förenklat förfarande för handläggning av vissa koncentrationer enligt rådets förordning (EG) nr 139/2004 (2).

| 4. | Kommissionen uppmanar berörd tredje part att till den lämna eventuella synpunkter på den föreslagna koncentrationen.
  Synpunkterna skall ha inkommit till kommissionen senast tio dagar efter detta offentliggörande. Synpunkterna kan sändas till kommissionen per fax ((32-2) 296 43 01 eller 296 72 44) eller per post med angivande av referensnummer COMP/M.3745 – Severstal/Lucchini till:





  Europeiska kommissionen |
| --- | --- |
| Generaldirektoratet för konkurrens |
| Registratorskontoret ”Företagskoncentrationer och -fusioner” |
| J-70 |
| B-1049 Bryssel |

4.

Kommissionen uppmanar berörd tredje part att till den lämna eventuella synpunkter på den föreslagna koncentrationen.

Synpunkterna skall ha inkommit till kommissionen senast tio dagar efter detta offentliggörande. Synpunkterna kan sändas till kommissionen per fax ((32-2) 296 43 01 eller 296 72 44) eller per post med angivande av referensnummer COMP/M.3745 – Severstal/Lucchini till:

Europeiska kommissionen

Generaldirektoratet för konkurrens

Registratorskontoret ”Företagskoncentrationer och -fusioner”

J-70

B-1049 Bryssel

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(1)  EUT L 24, 29.1.2004, s. 1.

(2)  Tillgänglig på GD konkurrens hemsida:

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

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| 12.3.2005 | SV | Europeiska unionens officiella tidning | C 62/6 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.3.2005

SV

Europeiska unionens officiella tidning

C 62/6

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Tillstånd till statligt stöd enligt artiklarna 87 och 88 i EG-fördraget

Fall i vilka kommissionen inte gör några invändningar

(2005/C 62/04)

(Text av betydelse för EES)

Datum för antagande av beslutet:

Medlemsstat [region]: Italien

Stöd nr: N 584/2003

Benämning: Förlängning av leveransfristen för två ro-ro TP-fartyg (nummer C.209 och C.210)

Syfte [sektor]: Byggande av fartyg

Rättslig grund: Articolo 2 della Legge n. 522 del 28.12.1999

Stödnivå eller stödbelopp: 9 %

Övriga upplysningar: Giltiga språkversioner av beslutstexten, med undantag av konfidentiella uppgifter, finns på följande webbplats:

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

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| 12.3.2005 | SV | Europeiska unionens officiella tidning | C 62/7 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.3.2005

SV

Europeiska unionens officiella tidning

C 62/7

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Meddelande av den 21 januari 2005 från Maltas regering i enlighet med Europaparlamentets och rådets direktiv 94/22/EG av den 30 maj 1994 (om villkoren för beviljande och utnyttjande av tillstånd för prospektering efter samt undersökning och utvinning av kolväten) (1)

(2005/C 62/05)

(Text av betydelse för EES)

I enlighet med artikel 10 i ovannämnda direktiv underrättar Republiken Maltas regering härmed Europeiska kommissionen om att den enda behöriga myndigheten på detta område är Republiken Maltas ministerium för resurser och infrastruktur. (Ministry for Resources and Infrastructure of the Republic of Malta – l-Ministeru tar-Riÿorsi u l-Infrastruttura tar-Repubblika ta' Malta). Adressen till ministeriet är Blokk B, il-Floriana CMR 02, Malta.

I enlighet med artikel 5.1 i direktivet upplyser ministeriet om att följande kriterier tillämpas vid beviljande av tillstånd:

| (a) | Sökandens finansiella resurser. |
| --- | --- |

(a)

Sökandens finansiella resurser.

| (b) | Sökandens tekniska kompetens och erfarenhet. |
| --- | --- |

(b)

Sökandens tekniska kompetens och erfarenhet.

| (c) | Sökandens föreslagna arbetsprogram. |
| --- | --- |

(c)

Sökandens föreslagna arbetsprogram.

| (d) | I förekommande fall sökandens tidigare verksamhetsresultat inom ramen för annat beviljat tillstånd. |
| --- | --- |

(d)

I förekommande fall sökandens tidigare verksamhetsresultat inom ramen för annat beviljat tillstånd.

| (e) | Om tillståndet utbjuds till försäljning: det pris sökanden är beredd att betala. |
| --- | --- |

(e)

Om tillståndet utbjuds till försäljning: det pris sökanden är beredd att betala.

I enlighet med artikel 5.2 i direktivet skall det finnas uppgifter tillgängliga om de villkor och krav som rör utövande och avslutande av verksamhet och som är tillämpliga på varje typ av tillstånd. För Maltas del återfinns dessa uppgifter i Mudell ESA (2001) och Mudell PSC (2001) som publiceras av byrån för oljeprospektering (Oil Exploration Department – mid-Dipartiment gÿall-Esplorazzjoni taÿ-ÿejt) vid ovannämnda ministerium. Dessa uppgifter är dock inte nödvändigtvis tillämpliga i det fall som anges i direktivets artikel 3.2 a.

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(1)  EGT L 164, 30.6.1994, s. 3.

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| 12.3.2005 | SV | Europeiska unionens officiella tidning | C 62/8 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.3.2005

SV

Europeiska unionens officiella tidning

C 62/8

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Meddelande av den 21 januari 2005 från Maltas regering i enlighet med Europaparlamentets och rådets direktiv 94/22/EG av den 30 maj 1994 (om villkoren för beviljande och utnyttjande av tillstånd för prospektering efter samt undersökning och utvinning av kolväten) (1)

(2005/C 62/06)

(Text av betydelse för EES)

I enlighet med artikel 3.3 i ovannämnda direktiv underrättar Republiken Maltas ministerium för resurser och infrastruktur (Ministry for Resources and Infrastructure of the Republic of Malta – l-Ministeru tar-Riÿorsi u l-Infrastruttura tar-Repubblika ta' Malta) härmed att följande offshoreområden, eller block inom dem, är aktuella för beviljande av tillstånd, antingen för enbart prospektering eller för både prospektering och produktion:

| (i) | Område 1 |
| --- | --- |

(i)

Område 1

| (ii) | Område 3 (utom för nedan angivna block) |
| --- | --- |

(ii)

Område 3 (utom för nedan angivna block)

| (iii) | Område 4 (utom för nedan angivna block) |
| --- | --- |

(iii)

Område 4 (utom för nedan angivna block)

| (iv) | Område 6 |
| --- | --- |

(iv)

Område 6

För följande områden eller block finns tillstånd som beviljats före den 1 maj 2004. Nya tillstånd får således inte beviljas innan annat meddelas.

| (i) | Område 2 |
| --- | --- |

(i)

Område 2

| (ii) | Block 4 och 5 i område 3 |
| --- | --- |

(ii)

Block 4 och 5 i område 3

| (iii) | Block 3 i område 4 |
| --- | --- |

(iii)

Block 3 i område 4

| (iv) | Område 5 |
| --- | --- |

(iv)

Område 5

| (v) | Område 7 |
| --- | --- |

(v)

Område 7

Sökande skall inkomma med uppgifter som skall fyllas i på den blankett som publiceras i Republiken Maltas bestämmelser om oljeproduktion (rättsliga meddelanden nr 320 av den 1 december 2001) (Petroleum [Production] Regulations [Legal Notice 320, 1st December 2001] – Regolamenti dwar iÿ-ÿejt [Produzzjoni], 2001 [Avviÿ Legali 320 ta' l-2001, 1 ta' Diÿembru 2001]).

De områden eller block som är aktuella för beviljande av tillstånd, liksom de områden eller block för vilka tillstånd redan beviljats, begränsas av geografiska koordinater. Ni kan erhålla uppgift om dessa, liksom annan information, genom att kontakta byrån för oljeprospektering vid ministeriet för resurser och infrastruktur (Oil Exploration Department at the Ministry for Resources and Infrastructure – mid-Dipartiment ta' l-Esplorazzjoni gÿaÿ-ÿejt fil-Ministeru tar-Riÿorsi u l-Infrastruttura), adress Blokk B, il-Furjana CMR 02, Malta (tfn (356) 21 23 79 21).

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(1)  EGT L 164, 30.6.1994, s. 3.

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| 12.3.2005 | SV | Europeiska unionens officiella tidning | C 62/9 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.3.2005

SV

Europeiska unionens officiella tidning

C 62/9

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Förhandsanmälan av en koncentration

(Ärende COMP/M.3743 – DuPont/DDE)

Ärendet kan komma att handläggas enligt ett förenklat förfarande

(2005/C 62/07)

(Text av betydelse för EES)

| 1. | Kommissionen mottog den 4 mars 2005 en anmälan om en föreslagen koncentration enligt artikel 4 och en begäran om hänskjutning enligt artikel 4.5 i rådets förordning (EG) nr 139/2004 (1), genom vilken företaget E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company (DuPont, USA) på det sätt som avses i artikel 3.1 b i förordningen förvärvar kontroll över delar av företaget DuPont Dow Ellastomers L.L.C. (DDE, USA) genom förvärv av aktier. |
| --- | --- |

1.

Kommissionen mottog den 4 mars 2005 en anmälan om en föreslagen koncentration enligt artikel 4 och en begäran om hänskjutning enligt artikel 4.5 i rådets förordning (EG) nr 139/2004 (1), genom vilken företaget E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company (DuPont, USA) på det sätt som avses i artikel 3.1 b i förordningen förvärvar kontroll över delar av företaget DuPont Dow Ellastomers L.L.C. (DDE, USA) genom förvärv av aktier.

| 2. | De berörda företagen bedriver följande affärsverksamhet:






  — | DuPont: Globalt diversifierat företag aktivt inom flera olika sektorer såsom jordbruk, livsmedel, elektronik, kommunikation, säkerhet och skydd av hem, heminredning och husbyggnad samt biltillbehör; |
| --- | --- | --- |

2.

De berörda företagen bedriver följande affärsverksamhet:

—

DuPont: Globalt diversifierat företag aktivt inom flera olika sektorer såsom jordbruk, livsmedel, elektronik, kommunikation, säkerhet och skydd av hem, heminredning och husbyggnad samt biltillbehör;

| — | DDE: Forskning, utveckling, tillverkning och saluföring av elastomerer. |
| --- | --- |

—

DDE: Forskning, utveckling, tillverkning och saluföring av elastomerer.

| 3. | Kommissionen har vid en preliminär granskning kommit fram till att den anmälda koncentrationen kan omfattas av förordning (EG) nr 139/2004, dock med det förbehållet att ett slutligt beslut i denna fråga fattas senare. Det bör noteras att detta ärende kan komma att handläggas enligt ett förenklat förfarande, i enlighet med kommissionens tillkännagivande om ett förenklat förfarande för handläggning av vissa koncentrationer enligt rådets förordning (EEG) nr 139/2004 (2). |
| --- | --- |

3.

Kommissionen har vid en preliminär granskning kommit fram till att den anmälda koncentrationen kan omfattas av förordning (EG) nr 139/2004, dock med det förbehållet att ett slutligt beslut i denna fråga fattas senare. Det bör noteras att detta ärende kan komma att handläggas enligt ett förenklat förfarande, i enlighet med kommissionens tillkännagivande om ett förenklat förfarande för handläggning av vissa koncentrationer enligt rådets förordning (EEG) nr 139/2004 (2).

| 4. | Kommissionen uppmanar berörda tredje parter att till den lämna eventuella synpunkter på den föreslagna koncentrationen.
  Synpunkterna skall ha kommit in till kommissionen senast tio dagar efter detta offentliggörande. Synpunkterna kan sändas till kommissionen per fax ((32-2) 296 43 01 eller 296 72 44) eller per post, med angivande av referens COMP/M.3743 – DuPont/DDE, till





  Europeiska kommissionen |
| --- | --- |
| Generaldirektoratet för konkurrens |
| Registreringsenheten för företagskoncentrationer |
| J-70 |
| B-1049 Bryssel |

4.

Kommissionen uppmanar berörda tredje parter att till den lämna eventuella synpunkter på den föreslagna koncentrationen.

Synpunkterna skall ha kommit in till kommissionen senast tio dagar efter detta offentliggörande. Synpunkterna kan sändas till kommissionen per fax ((32-2) 296 43 01 eller 296 72 44) eller per post, med angivande av referens COMP/M.3743 – DuPont/DDE, till

Europeiska kommissionen

Generaldirektoratet för konkurrens

Registreringsenheten för företagskoncentrationer

J-70

B-1049 Bryssel

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(1)  EUT L 24, 29.1.2004, s. 1.

(2)  Finns tillgänglig på GD Konkurrens hemsida:

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

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| 12.3.2005 | SV | Europeiska unionens officiella tidning | C 62/10 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.3.2005

SV

Europeiska unionens officiella tidning

C 62/10

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STATLIGT STÖD – FÖRENADE KUNGARIKET

Statligt stöd nr C 4/2005 (f.d. NN 57/2004)

Fatighetsskatt på telekommunikationsinfrastruktur

Uppmaning att inkomma med synpunkter enligt artikel 88.2 i EG-fördraget

(2005/C 62/08)

(Text av betydelse för EES)

Genom den skrivelse av den 19 januari 2005 som återges på det giltiga språket på de sidor som följer på denna sammanfattning, underrättade kommissionen Förenade kungariket om sitt beslut att inleda det förfarande som anges i artikel 88.2 i EG-fördraget avseende ovannämnda stödordning.

Berörda parter kan inom en månad från dagen för offentliggörandet av denna sammanfattning och den därpå följande skrivelsen inkomma med sina synpunkter. Synpunkterna skall sändas till följande adress:

| Europeiska kommissionen |
| --- |
| Generaldirektoratet för konkurrens |
| Registreringsenheten för statligt stöd |
| B-1049 Bryssel |
| Fax (32-2) 296 12 42 |

Europeiska kommissionen

Generaldirektoratet för konkurrens

Registreringsenheten för statligt stöd

B-1049 Bryssel

Fax (32-2) 296 12 42

Synpunkterna kommer att meddelas Förenade kungariket. Den tredje part som inkommer med synpunkter kan skriftligen begära konfidentiell behandling av sin identitet, med angivande av skälen för begäran.

SAMMANFATTNING

Förfarande

I februari 2004 lämnade det brittiska teleföretaget Vtesse Networks Ltd ett klagomål om påstått statligt stöd i form av en förmånlig beskattning av det dominerande teleföretaget British Telecom Plc (BT). På grundval av detta klagomål anmodade kommissionen de brittiska myndigheterna att lämna upplysningar och tog emot ett svar i april 2004.

Beskrivning av den åtgärd avseende vilken kommissionen inleder förfarandet

Stödåtgärden rör en brittisk skatt på egendom i affärsverksamhet, inbegripet telekommunikationsinfrastruktur. Den lagstiftning som primärt styr denna beskattning i England och Wales är lagen om finansiering av lokal förvaltning från 1988 (Local Government Finance Act 1988). Enligt denna lag är det en värdering av tillgångarna som utgör beskattningsunderlag, till vilket en skattesats påförs för att beräkna det skattepliktiga beloppet. Skattesatsen fastställs varje år och är densamma för alla teleföretag. Beskattningsunderlaget för varje enskilt företag fastställs däremot av Valuation Office Agency (VOA), ett verkställande organ som lyder under regeringen. Det fastställs genom tillämpning av olika värderingsmetoder och ger möjlighet till överklagan. VOA tillämpar en viss värderingsmetod på BT och Kingston Communication (det företag som dominerar i regionen Hull), men en annan metod tillämpas på klaganden och andra konkurrerande teleföretag. Det förefaller som om tillämpningen av olika metoder framkallar en olikartad och oproportionerlig skattebörda bland de företag som konkurrerar på telekommunikationsmarknaden.

Bedömning

Enligt kommissionens meddelande om tillämpningen av reglerna om statligt stöd på åtgärder som omfattar direkt beskattning av företag (EGT C 384, 10.12.98, s. 3), kan skatteförmåner som förbehålls vissa sorters företag, utgöra statligt stöd i den utsträckning de gynnar vissa företag eller produktion av vissa varor. En minskning av BT och Kingstons beskattningsunderlag och därmed beskattningsnivå ger dessa företag en selektiv fördel, då den minskar de kostnader dessa företag normalt skulle ha fått bära för sin verksamhet. Den brittiska telekommunikationsmarknaden har öppnats för konkurrens och förmånerna till BT och Kingston Communications kan snedvrida konkurrensen och påverka handeln. Kriterierna för att bedöma åtgärden som statligt stöd i enlighet med artikel 87.1 i EG-fördraget förefaller därmed vara uppfyllda.

I detta skede av förfarandet drar kommissionen slutsatsen att de brittiska myndigheterna kan ha beviljat statligt stöd till BT och Kingston Communications i den mening som avses i artikel 87.1 i EG-fördraget. Även om man kan utesluta förekomst av stöd när den olika behandlingen motiveras av systemets art eller funktion, tvivlar kommissionen på att man i föreliggande ärende kan utesluta stöd med denna motivering.

De undantag som anges i artikel 87.2 och 87.3 verkar inte vara tillämpliga. Eftersom kommissionen betvivlar att stödet är förenligt med EG-fördraget har den beslutat att inleda det formella granskningsförfarande som anges i artikel 88.2 i EG-fördraget. Enligt artikel 14 i rådets förordning (EG) nr 659/1999 kan allt olagligt stöd komma att återkrävas från mottagaren.

SKRIVELSEN

| ”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. |
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”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. |
| --- | --- |

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. |
| --- | --- | --- |

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. |
| --- | --- |

(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. |
| --- | --- |

(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 Upplysningar

Kommissionen

| 12.3.2005 | SV | Europeiska unionens officiella tidning | C 62/19 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.3.2005

SV

Europeiska unionens officiella tidning

C 62/19

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UK-Greenock: Bedrivande av regelbunden flygtrafik

Anbudsinfrodran utlyst av Irland, i enlighet met artikel 4.1 d i rådets förordning (EEG), avseende regelbunden lufttrafik mellan Galway/Na Minna och Aranöarna

(2005/C 62/09)

(Text av betydelse för EES)

1.   Inledning: I enlighet met artikel 4.1 a i förordning (EEG) nr 2408/92 av den 23.7.1992 om EG-lufttrafikföretags tillträde till flyglinjer inom gemenskapen har Irland infört allmän trafikplikt för regelbunden lufttrafik mellan Galway/Na Minna och Aranöarna. Denna allmänna trafikplikt skall gälla från och med den 1.8.2005. Villkoren för den allmänna trafikplikten har offentliggjorts i
  Europeiska gemenskapernas officiella tidning C 281/05 av den 5.10.2001 och, i senaste ändrade version, i
  Europeiska unionens officiella tidning C 61 av den 11.3.2005.

Om inget lufttrafikföretag har inlett, eller står i begrepp att inleda en sådan regelbunden flygtrafik senast den 1.7.2005, i överensstämmelse med den allmänna trafikplikten och utan att begära ekonomisk ersättning, har Irland, i enlighet med det förfarande som föreskrivs i artikel 4.1 d i ovannämnda förordning, beslutat att även fortsättningsvis begränsa tillträdet till denna linje till ett enda lufttrafikföretag och att efter infordran av anbud upplåta rätten att trafikera denna linje från och med den 1.8.2005.

2.   Föremålet för anbudsinfordran: Att från och med den 1.8.2005 bedriva regelbunden lufttrafik mellan Galway/Na Minna och Aranöarna i enlighet med den allmänna trafikplikt som föreskrivits för denna linje och som offentliggjorts i
  Europeiska gemenskapernas officiella tidning C 281/05 av den 5.10.2001 och, i senast ändrade version, i
  Europeiska unionens officiella tidning C 61 av den 11.3.2005.

3.   Deltagande i anbudsinfordran: Alla de lufttrafikföretag som innehar giltigt tillstånd för bedrivande av flygtrafik, utfärdat av en medlemsstat i enlighet med rådets förordning (EEG) 2407/92 av den 23.7.1992 om utfärdande av tillstånd för lufttrafikföretag, har rätt att delta i anbudsförfarandet. Trafiken skall bedrivas i enlighet med de civila irländska luftfartsmyndigheternas regelverk (Civil Aviation Authority, IAA).

4.   Anbudsförfarande: För denna anbudsinfordran gäller bestämmelserna i artikel 4.1 d, e, f, g, h och i i rådets förordning (EEG) nr 2408/92.

5.   Anbudshandlingar/kvalifikationer etc.: De fullständiga anbudshandlingarna, inklusive ett standardkontrakt, specifikationer, allmänna upplysningar samt den ursprungliga text om den allmänna trafikplikten som offentliggjorts i
  Europeiska gemenskapernas officiella tidning nr C 281 av den 5.10.2001 och, i senast ändrade version, i
  Europeiska unionens officiella tidning C 61 av den 11.3.2005, kan fås kostnadsfritt från upphandlingsmyndigheten på följande adress:

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

Till anbudshandlingarna skall lufttrafikföretagen bifoga handlingar som visar företagets ekonomiska situation (en årsrapport och räkenskaper godkända av revisor för de senaste tre åren skall bifogas tillsammans med uppgifter om omsättning och vinsten före skatt under de senaste tre åren) samt tidigare erfarenhet och tekniska förutsättningar för att kunna bedriva den aktuella trafiken. Upphandlingsmyndigheten förbehåller sig rätten att begära in mer information om det ansökande företagets ekonomiska och tekniska resurser och kvalifikationer.

Priserna skall anges i euro och alla bifogade dokument måste vara skrivna på engelska eller iriska. Kontraktet skall uppfattas som ett kontrakt enligt irländsk lag och vara underställt de irländska domstolarnas jurisdiktion.

6.   Ekonomisk ersättning: I anbudsgivarnas anbud skall det belopp tydlligt anges som krävs för att under tre år trafikera linjen från och med det datum då trafiken skall inledas (med årsvis uppdelning). Ersättningen skall beräknas i enlighet med de föreskrivna minimikraven.

De exakta ersättningsbelopp som Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs kommer att bevilja bestäms varje år i efterhand och skall endast avse faktiska förluster. Det skall grundas på redovisade faktiska utgifter och intäkter för trafiken, och, i förekommande fall, vinstmarginal, dock högst det belopp som anges i anbudet för varje enskilt år.

Kontraktet kommer att omfatta möjligheten att öka den maximala ersättningen för något år, om förändringar i driftsvillkoren uppträder. Upphandlingsmyndigheten beslutar ensam om sådana höjningar. Utan att det påverkar bestämmelserna om kontraktets upphävande, kommer upphandlingsmyndigheten när den beslutar om en eventuell höjning av maximibeloppet för ersättning för ett visst år, att beakta utveckling som påverkar tillhandahållandet av tjänsten och som inte förutsetts eller kunnat förutses av anbudsgivaren eller beror på faktorer som ligger utanför anbudsgivarens kontroll.

Kontraktet kommer att tilldelas av ministern för ”Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs”. Alla betalningar inom ramen för kontraktet kommer att ske i euro och kommer att förutsätta att upphandlingsmyndigheten fått in en styrkt begäran om ersättning tillsammans med ett intyg från transportföretagets revisor i enlighet med kontraktsvillkoren.

7.   Giltighet, ändring och uppsägning av kontraktet: Kontraktet kommer att vara giltigt i upp till tre år med början den 1.8.2005, dock senast fram till den 31.7.2008. Ett nytt anbudsförfarande kommer i förekommande fall att utlysas före den 31.7.2008. Ändring och uppsägning av kontraktet skall ske i enlighet med kontraktsvillkoren. Variationer i trafiken kommer endast att tillåtas efter medgivande av upphandlingsmyndigheten.

8.   Påföljder om lufttrafikföretaget bryter mot kontraktet: Vid force majeure och om en flygning ställs in av skäl som direkt kan tillskrivas lufttrafikföretaget skall ersättning endast betalas ut för lufttrafikföretagets eventuella faktiska utgifter i samband med hanteringen av passagerare som påverkas av att flygningen ställs in. Upphandlingsmyndigheten förbehåller sig rätten att varsla om upphävande av kontraktet om den, efter att ha beaktat hur lufttrafikföretaget tillhandahåller tjänsten och i synnerhet hur många flygningar som ställts in av skäl som direkt kan tillskrivas lufttrafikföretaget, anser att de krav som den allmänna trafikplikten ställer inte har uppfyllts eller inte har uppfyllts på ett tillfredsställande sätt.

9.   Sista inlämningsdag för anbud: En månad efter offentliggörandet av detta meddelande i tillägget till Europeiska unionens officiella tidning.

10.   Ingivande av anbud: Anbud skall skickas till adressen i punkt 5 ovan och markeras med texten ”EASP Tender” senast kl. 12.00 (irländsk tid) den dag som anges i punkt 9.

11.   Anbudsinfordrans giltighet: Denna anbudsinfordran är enligt artikel 4.1 d i förordning (EEG) nr 2408/92 giltig under förutsättning att inget lufttrafikföretag från någon medlemsstat före den 1.7.2005 har presenterat ett program för trafikering av linjen i fråga från och med den 1.8.2005 eller tidigare, i enlighet med den allmänna trafikplikten i dess ändrade version, utan att få någon ekonomisk ersättning.

12.   Freedom of Information Acts (Lagarna om informationsfrihet), 1997 och 2003: Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs åtar sig att i möjligaste mån hålla anbudsgivarnas uppgifter konfidentiella, utan att det påverkar ministeriets lagstadgade skyldigheter, däribland lagarna om informationsfrihet, 1997 och 2003. Om anbudsgivarna inte vill att uppgifter som de tillhandahållit i sina anbud skall offentliggöras på grund av att dessa är kommersiellt känsliga, skall de i samband med att uppgifterna lämnas in markera dessa och ange varför de är känsliga. Ministeriet kommer att samråda med anbudsgivarna om sådana känsliga uppgifter innan de fattar beslut om huruvida de skall göras tillgängliga i enlighet med bestämmelserna i lagen om informationsfrihet. Om anbudsgivarna anser att de inte lämnat några kommersiellt känsliga uppgifter skall de ange detta. Sådana uppgifter kommer att tillhandahållas på begäran enligt lagen om informationsfrihet.

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