(pressebox) (Koeln, 28.12.2013) You can register at the moment uk-domains only at the third level. Example: com-domains.org.uk. Nominet will introduce registrations at the second level in summer 2014. Example: business.uk.

Nominet believes that a new second level domains policy is necessary to keep the namespace competitive alongside the introduction of over 1,000 new top level domains from 2014.

Nominet says:"Combining a shorter suffix with the trust of the ‘.uk’ brand would offer a wider choice for existing .uk registrants and the millions of consumers and businesses who do not yet have their own online space."

The second level domain at .uk will be shorter -and therefore more memorable. This is a great advantage for marketing of the .uk website and the content at this uk-domain.

Over ten million existing .uk customers can register with priority at .uk the shorter equivalent of their current address. If a current owner of a co.uk or org.uk does not use the chance to register the "sister domain" at .uk, everybody can register this uk-domain. Our recommendation for companies is to get control of all domains - at .co.uk, org.uk and .uk. A nasty situation could arise, if a competitor is marketing its services and products with your name at another uk-domain.

Hans-Peter Oswald
http://www.domainregistry.de/...