EC steps up proceedings against Germany

The European Commission on Thursday stepped up its infringement proceedings against Germany over provisions to grant a “regulatory holiday” to incumbent carrier Deutsche Telekom.

The infringement procedure was launched at the end of February after amendments to Germany’s telecoms law provided for an exemption of Deutsche Telekom’s VDSL fast internet access network from competition.

Germany was requested to remove the laws because they were incompatible with EU rules and would further benefit Deutsche Telekom’s already dominant position in the broadband market.

The Commission’s latest move is the last step before referring the case to the European Court of Justice. Germany has one month to reply.