THE chief executive of Cable & Wireless International has pledged the company’s long-term commitment to the island.

The international group’s board met in Guernsey this week and while in the island, Tony Rice met leading political and regulatory figures including Chief Minister Lyndon Trott, Treasury minister Charles Parkinson and director-general of the Office of Utility Regulation John Curran.

‘In each case I stressed our commitment to the island and also the market conditions which are going to help Guernsey develop the technology infrastructure it needs for the future. They in turn were supportive of our performance and plans as we continue to deliver state-of-the-art, world-class telecoms services at competitive prices to the economy, businesses and consumers of Guernsey.’

In addition to Mr Rice, all senior directors of the international telecoms operator were present in Guernsey, including Richard Lapthorne, chairman of Cable & Wireless plc and International.

Since buying Guernsey Telecoms in 2002, the company says it has invested more than £45m.

Major investments include the Hugo cable network system and internet improvements which see Guernsey enjoy one of the highest internet penetration rates in Europe, with 80% of households online, and the island becoming one of the leading offshore providers of hosting and co-location services through its data centres.

‘The infrastructure we have created brings new technology and a heavy level of service to our customers here and helps businesses to grow both locally and internationally.

‘We are committed to Guernsey and want to continue investing in future years, within an appropriately and reasonably regulated environment to deliver for our customers here.’