Why is it .co.uk not just .uk?

[r2d2]

Always wondered why there is the .co in our TLD? Theres .us, .fr, .de etc....

[GCT13]

Found this:
http://www.surreywebdesign.co.uk/domainnames.html

Read the heading beginning "UK domain names (co.uk/org.uk/.ltd.uk/.plc.uk)"

[ozgression]

I also wondered about this regarding .com.au domains.

They are always confused with .com's by unsavvy internet users (so an Australia site would need to register the .com.au and the .com). I, personally, would prefer domain.au (just like the .de .us names).
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[incka]

Nominet decided to do this for the same reason ICANN launched new TLDS - There is too much demands for just one TLD. Also it is important to seperate between, let's say a government site and a commercial site.

[r2d2]

Jus had a thought, new zealand are .co.nz arent they? Is the .co supposed to be commonwealth or something?

Ah maybe not, just found this page (http://www.caslon.com.au/domainsprofile4.htm) ...

[incka]

Co is commercial. Look at www.nominet.uk (if working) or www.nominet.org.uk if not.