Telecom and its Xtra subsidiary, never enthusiasts for InternetNZ’s long-planned code of practice, are still reserving judgement over the exercise.
“We will always consider an industry initiative based on its merits — specifically how it will impact on and add value for our customers,” says Chris Thompson, Telecom’s head of broadband and internet.
“This particular idea [the code] is proposed for later in 2005 and we haven't yet had a lot of material on the subject to consider and so are not in a position to comment on the current approach,” he says.
InternetNZ has vowed to make a strong push on the code for the rest of this year and into next and to have it ready by mid-2005. Justice Minister Phil Goff has dropped hints of a government move to increase controls, possibly by licensing of internet service providers, in the absence of a workable CoP.
“The industry is well-covered by legislation and we are active participants in industry and government work around protecting New Zealanders online,” Thompson says, pointing to Telecom’s involvement in moves towards antispam legislation as an example.
“We have strong working relationships with other ISPs nationally and internationally, and it is these relationships that allow quick and effective responses and solutions to industry issues,” he adds.