As a developer, designer and manufacturer of the technologies and equipment that are at the centre of the communications revolution, Lucent is pleased to offer its perspective on certain issues raised in the Working Document. They are especially apparent in the burgeoning area of higher bandwidth services and networks. The increased investment brought about by a competitive market contributes to the growth of the overall economy and, in particular, can lead to the development of new revenue streams for incumbent and new operators alike.
Telecommunications providers move rapidly to bring innovative services to market.
The Working Document sets forth the proper framework for increasing the degree of competition for high bandwidth services. Incumbent providers do not necessarily operate in the same manner as providers in a fully competitive market. This is most especially the case in regard to their incentive to offer on a wholesale basis network facilities and services. A regulatory measure, such as the Commission's proposed Recommendation, can, if properly implemented, serve as a valuable, albeit limited, surrogate for competition to ensure that wholesale arrangements are created. In doing so, they will help fulfil the Commission's e Europe goals of increasing Internet use and literacy.