As part of our consultation on a proposed new direct.uk service, we are hosting a number of meetings and events to encourage people to put forward their views and comments.

Our consultation is asking for feedback on a proposal to launch a new service, which would potentially offer shorter domain names registered at the second level (i.e. internet.uk) as well as added security features. The proposed service is aimed at businesses and would sit alongside the current .uk portfolio, including .co.uk, .org.uk and .me.uk.

Taking part in the consultation will help us ensure that any resulting service or changes would meet the needs of businesses, boost trust in the .uk namespace, and contribute positively to Britain’s fast-growing internet economy.

Since its launch last Monday (1st October), we have had over 300 responses from a broad range of different organisations and individuals. We would like to thank all of those who have contributed their thoughts so far.  

Issues raised include specific security aspects of the service, as well as broader policy or operational questions and the impact of the proposed change on existing .uk portfolio and registrar business models. In response, we have a consultation FAQ to offer greater clarification on a number of points.  

We recognise that the proposals represent significant change for the .uk domain name space, and have a number of different ways to get involved and help shape our plans.

1. Roundtable Discussions

To ensure we are capturing feedback from a number of specific perspectives, we will be holding three roundtable discussion sessions in London:

• Tuesday 6 November – for domain name registrars.
• Wednesday 7 November – for small and large businesses, trademark holders.
• Friday 9 November – for civil society, consumer advocates, and academics.

There will also be four further meetings that will be open to all:

• 14 November in Cardiff
• 28 November in Glasgow
• 4 December in Manchester
• 11 December in Belfast

For more information and to register your interest in attending, please visit: www.nominet.org.uk/go/directukengagement  

2. Open House

To answer specific questions you may have about the proposals, we will be holding an ‘Open House’ on 8 November 2012 in London. Nominet staff will be on hand to discuss specific aspects of the proposed direct.uk service, including malware scanning, registrant contact detail verification, plans for sunrise period and dispute resolution. If you would like to attend please register your details.

3. .uk Registrar Conference

For registrars, there will also be an opportunity to discuss the proposals with us at the forthcoming .uk Registrar Conference, which is taking place on Wednesday 21 November in London. If you are interested in attending please register your details.

An interactive webcast will also be available if you are unable to attend this event in person.

4.  Respond to the consultation

You can view the proposals and respond to the consultation either by completing an online form, by downloading the consultation and return your completed form to direct@nominet.org.uk or by requesting a printed copy of the consultation from direct@nominet.org.uk.

5.  Twitter, blog and email

We will be providing regular updates about the consultation on Twitter and on our blog. We will also be sending email updates if you have registered to receive them.  

The consultation is open until 7th January 2013.