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<p><del class="ministerial">The Electronic Communications Code (ECC) was recently
reformed as part of the Digital Economy Act 2017. These reforms were intended to reduce
the cost of providing communications infrastructure and make it easier for operators
to deploy such infrastructure. The new Code came into force on 28 December 2017.</del></p><p>
</p><p><del class="ministerial">The Regulatory Impact Assessment published by Government
estimated that the ECC reforms could lead to a reduction in average market rents (as
compared to rates agreed before reforms to the ECC). However, the eventual impact
is difficult to predict during this period of transition in which operators and site
providers adapt to the new legislation.</del></p><p> </p><p><del class="ministerial">During
this period, where the market is adjusting and settling, good working relationships
between site providers and code operators are critical, and we encourage all parties
to continue their efforts to reach mutually acceptable agreements. A joint statement
released in August reaffirmed the commitment made by DCMS, industry, CLA and RICS
to work collaboratively to implement the ECC.</del></p><p> </p><p><del class="ministerial">My
Department will continue to work with stakeholders, including representatives from
industry, landowners, representative bodies and Ofcom, to inform the implementation
of the new Code. We will monitor developments carefully and, as outlined in the Future
Telecoms Infrastructure Review, (<a href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/732496/Future_Telecoms_Infrastructure_Review.pdf"
target="_blank">https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/732496/Future_Telecoms_Infrastructure_Review.pdf</a>)
will consider a formal review of the impact of the ECC reforms.</del></p><p><ins class="ministerial">The
Comptroller and Auditor General is the BBC's independent auditor with powers to conduct
value for money studies related to the economy, efficiency and effectiveness of the
BBC. Decisions in relation to reviewing BBC activity are therefore a matter for the
National Audit Office, not government. </ins></p><p> </p>
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