07 February 2012
by Barry McKeown.
On 1st February was posted Minister Ed Vaizey MP, response to the Spectrum Report, published on the 3rd November last. Whereas there is no contentious issues flagged it is note worthy that the response to the “Public Sector Spectrum” portion highlights the importance of the ITU’s WRC-12, currently underway in Geneva, of international harmonisation and recognises the importance of spectrum for the emergency services which needs addressing.
The relevant extracts are:
Public sector spectrum
13. We welcome DCMS's consultation on the release of public sector spectrum. We urge DCMS to work closely with Ofcom and with the relevant international bodies to ensure that the spectrum that is released is internationally harmonised. (Paragraph 97)
Response to 13. We recognise the benefits of released spectrum will be multiplied if that spectrum is internationally harmonised and will be working with Ofcom to encourage harmonisation where practical within Europe and internationally at the World Radio Conferences.
14. We are concerned that, because the emergency services are not in a position to bid for spectrum at auction, they could be overlooked in spectrum policy. It is vital that Ofcom and DCMS take into full account the spectrum needs of the emergency services in their spectrum policies. (Paragraph 98)
Response to 14. The Secretary of State for Culture's open letter on the Communications Review sought views on a number of policy areas, including spectrum policy. The forthcoming Green Paper, to be published early in the New Year, will consider how best to meet future spectrum requirements of the emergency services. Parliament will of course have an opportunity to contribute its views on this matter.
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