Jose Manuel Barroso is correct on the need for a single market to ensure the EU remains a significant economic player (Telecom watchdogs to gain more powers).

European telecoms reform of this magnitude is long overdue, particularly if EU-based businesses are to continue to compete in a globalised market. Greater harmonisation and regulatory consistency across Europe is essential, particularly in countries where national regulators have not yet implemented directives in a complete or effective way.

It is about time that the European Commission (EC) and national regulators started paying the same attention to the business telecoms market as they do to the consumer market.

Business communications are very different from residential communications. For example, many business users require multiple cross-border sites to be connected simultaneously, while local access bottlenecks often make it difficult to provide these services in an efficient way. The EC and national regulators must be prepared to regulate to improve competition in this segment.

Regulation does not just mean greater scrutiny; it can help generate competition and choice for consumers.

The EC's move is welcome recognition of the importance of pan-European business communications in driving workplace productivity and underpinning the smooth running of the European economy.

Robin Saphra