The European Commission has set up a questionnaire regarding the broadband issues, such as the development of very high speed broadband technologies or how best to design the access conditions on subsidized next generation networks and has invited stakeholders to give their views on the forthcoming revision of EU rules on the public financing of broadband infrastructure.

The current Broadband Guidelines, adopted in September 2009, provide a clear and comprehensive framework for the application of EU state aid rules in this strategic sector.  Nonetheless, rapid technological progress and fast evolving markets may require adaptations. In light of the results, the Commission will decide whether a revision of the guidelines is indicated and, if it is so, put forward a proposal for discussion in early 2012. Moreover, the Guidelines foresee their revision by September 2012 on the basis of important market, technological and regulatory developments. Therefore, the Commission is consulting Member States and stakeholders at an early stage of the review process, to get their opinion and experience with state aid broadband measures. Any contribution to the public consultation can be submitted by 31 August 2011.

The Guidelines form an important part of the EU Digital Agenda. Together with other Commission initiatives, such as the NGA Recommendation, the Spectrum Policy and the Broadband Communication, they play an important role in achieving the ambitious European goals for high speed broadband development. The Commission has been able to issue a record number of decisions following the adoption of the 2009 Guidelines, and has approved a record amount of pro-competitive state aid in this sector (over to €1.8 billion in 2010).