Watchdog criticises telecoms firm

C&W has accused the OUR of 'selective interpretation'

Telecoms company Cable and Wireless (C&W) has been criticised by Guernsey's industry watchdog.

The Office Of Utility Regulation (OUR) said "significant failings" had been found in the way the company had dealt with other operators in the island.

The OUR investigated the wholesale section of the business after a series of disputes last year.

C&W has expressed its astonishment at the criticism and questioned the neutrality of the report.

The OUR looked at all aspects of the business it believes to be critical for the development of competition in the island's telecoms market.

Director John Curran said the results of the review were "highly disappointing" and highlighted the need for substantial structural changes at C&W.

But Peter Stahelin, C&W director of legal and regulatary affairs, claimed Mr Curran's "selective interpretation" was not an appropriate standpoint for a supposedly impartial party.