Ofcom, the official telecom regulator for the U.K., announced proposals for more flexible wireless spectrum licensing. Whereas regulators have traditionally adopted a ‘command and control’ approach in dictating wireless license terms, Ofcom said it proposes to introduce greater flexibility by reducing restrictions on type of use. Under the proposals, which are subject to public consultation, three key license types — Business Radio, Fixed Wireless Access and Fixed Wireless Services — will be addressed as a priority. Holders of these license types could benefit from these changes before the end of 2004.
Ofcom’s latest proposals are part of its wider policy to reduce the role of the regulator and give more responsibility to the market for deciding how spectrum should be used. However, various measures would enable the regulator to maintain control over interference to avoid disruption to services.
The closing date for responses to the consultation is 12th November 2004. http://www.ofcom.org.uk
