C&E's telco charges 'would be passed to the consumer'

TELECOMS providers have warned that proposed charges for use of the communications spectrum in Guernsey would increase prices for consumers.

Commerce and Employment yesterday announced its plans to introduce legislation so it can charge 5% on all revenues earned by mobile operators from the use of spectrum.

This is including, but not limited to, second-generation (2G), third-generation (3G), fourth-generation (4G) and fixed wireless access services.

'The telecoms sector in Guernsey already faces high taxes and other costs and we simply could not absorb yet another increase in our costs,' said chief executive of Sure in the Channel Islands Eddie Saints, pictured.

JT corporate affairs director Daragh McDermott also warned against the new proposals.

Airtel-Vodafone chief executive officer Ian Campbell said the charges would be an additional tax.