Mobile operator Hutchison 3G has launched a hunt for its first UK
public affairs agency.
The search has been initiated to bolster the firm's lobbying as the
Communications Bill goes through Parliament.
The bill, expected to become law by 2003, is set to create the
communications super regulator Ofcom, superseding Oftel, the industry
regulator.
Hutchison external relations head Edward Brewster said: 'We can confirm
we are looking to appoint an agency. We are a new firm so with matters
such as the Communications Bill we look to strengthen our efforts.'
The firm has already talked to a number of agencies. The successful
agency will report to 3G's in-house PA team, led by government affairs
head James Gurling.
Hutchison is still looking to appoint a corporate PR agency, to report
to Brewster's external relations team (PR Week, 28 September).
Some corporate work was done by Brunswick, which was taken on last year
to help with the agency's successful bid for a 3G licence. Brewster said
both agencies would work together to build the brand.
The operator is owned by Hong Kong-based Hutchison Whampoa, Japan's NTT
DoCoMo and Dutch wireless company KPN.
In the second half of next year, Hutchison is expected to make available
its 3G services.
