State aid: Commission endorses French broadband scheme

The European Commission concluded on 7 November 2016 that France's national broadband scheme was in line with EU state aid regulations as it would not unduly distort competition.

The Commission's assessment was based on the 2013 Broadband Guidelines and aimed to ensure, amongst other things, that public funding does not take the place of private investment. It also ensures that other service providers can use the publicly funded infrastructure on a non-discriminatory basis.

The French national broadband scheme 'Plan Très Haut Debit' aims to connect all households and businesses to very high speed broadband by 2022 and involves investments of €13 billion.

EurActiv, 07.11.16: EU approves France’s scheme for very high speed broadband http://www.euractiv.com/section/digital/news/eu-approves-frances-scheme-for-very-high-speed-broadband/

---