On 24 January, Oftel set out proposals to allow Vodafone to purchase fixed links from BT at cost oriented prices.

Vodafone often uses fixed links supplied by BT to join its base stations to the rest of its network. Vodafone currently purchase these links from BT at retail prices.

Oftel, following a request from Vodafone, has proposed that BT should supply radio base station links at cost oriented prices and on non-discriminatory terms to Vodafone, where they are requested. Oftel believes that the use of these fixed links would enable Vodafone to manage its network more efficiently.

Oftel's proposals are based very closely on BT's partial private circuits products which are used in the fixed line market to provide business broadband services.

For further information, contact Steve Burniston (tel: 020 7634 5361 / e-mail: steve.burniston@oftel.gov.uk).