Sweden's PTS Denies Requests For Slower 3G Buildout

STOCKHOLM -(Dow Jones)- Swedish telecom regulator PTS Tuesday saidit rejected a request from operators to delay the build-out of new third-generation mobile telecommunications networks.

PTS said an extension of the timetable isn't needed and the case put forward by operators wasn't strong enough.

At the same time, the regulator finalized an earlier decision to allow the networks to use a lower signaling strength, which allows operators to build fewer radio base stations.

PTS also rejected a request, put forward in June by TeliaSonera AB (TLSN.SK), Tele2 AB (TLTOB), HI3G Access, Vodafone Sweden and Svenska UMTS Licens AB for a change in signaling strength measurement that would further cut the need for radio base station deployment.

HI3G Access AB is a joint venture of Hutchison Whampoa Ltd (0013.HK) and Investor AB (INVE-B.SK). Vodafone Sweden is a subsidiary of Vodafone Group PLC (VOD).

PTS said license conditions will now be changed as a result of the revised signaling strength demands. Operators have until Dec. 17 to report how they are complying with the new license conditions.

-By Magnus Hansson, Dow Jones Newswires;+46 8 545 130 91, magnus.hansson@dowjones.com

(END) Dow Jones Newswires"

Posted to the site on 7th December 2004