The controversial issue of access charges to the British Telecommunications Plc network could lead to amendments in the licences of British Telecom and Mercury Communications Ltd, according to the UK Office of Telecommunications. A spokesman confirmed that the issue was still being discussed and that it was the main area of contention, but said that other areas may be affected as a result of what is decided. However he declined to say which areas. The row over access charges has led to a delay in the implementation of other aspects of duopoly review policy, for example the 10% reduction in British Telecom’s international prices had been scheduled for last month but BT says there will now be an announcement about international prices in the next 10 days. A spokesman said that the company wished to agree the details of all duopoly measures before implementing any part of the package.
