The Commission has sent Estonia a formal request to comply with EU telecoms rules which require a clear separation between bodies regulating telecoms markets and those providing telecoms services. Under these rules, national authorities which exercise regulatory tasks cannot simultaneously own or control telecoms companies. This separation is necessary to ensure impartiality of national telecoms regulators, to guarantee fair regulation for consumers and businesses, and to maintain competition. In September 2011, the Commission opened infringement proceedings against Estonia for not respecting the principle of separation. In Estonia, the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications manages radio frequencies, numbering resources and provision of universal services, while controlling state-owned Levira Ltd, which provides telecoms services including broadcasting and wireless broadband access. The formal request the Commission has made takes the form of a “reasoned opinion” giving Estonia two months to inform the Commission of measures it has taken to comply with EU rules. If it fails to do so, the Commission can refer the case to the ECJ. Read more.