Regulatory Framework The present laws of Antigua and Barbuda that govern the Telecommunications Industry are over 50 years old with every exception being referred back to the Cabinet. The Telecommunications Officer is essentially the Regulator but with his primary duties related to the administration of the Spectrum. The new regulatory framework relating to telecommunications will be modernized in conformity with this policy document to provide a legislative framework, which addresses critical telecommunication issues such as: • Competition • Creation of an Independent regulator • Licensing of telecommunication services and equipment • Convergence • Universal Service • Interconnection • Spectrum Management • Numbering • Quality of Service Standards • Consumer Protection Stiff penalties and fines will be introduced for breaches of the new legislation. 13