UK 3G spectrum trading timetabled for 2007

August 11, 2004

Ofcom has published an overview of the steps it intends to take in 2004-05 to introduce greater flexibility and freedom of use to radio spectrum management. The document would allow radio spectrum used for hundreds of different kinds of communications services to be traded which would also include 2G and 3G mobile spectrum.

Historically, Governments control every aspect of the allocation of the rights to use wireless communications services have managed spectrum.

Ofcom believes users tend to be better placed than governments to decide how best to meet market demand. Ofcom also believes that this approach gives users sufficient flexibility to make innovative new uses of existing spectrum.

The trading of 2G and 3G mobile spectrum has been timetabled for 2007 but Ofcom is still considering the appropriate timing for the introduction of spectrum trading in 2G and 3G mobile spectrum, and expects to confirm its proposals in this area later this year.

Ofcom will in September publish draft spectrum trading regulations. In November, the regulator will publish a proposed spectrum framework review that will contain Ofcom's conclusions on spectrum trading and liberalisation within the context of all spectrum management issues. December would see the publication of the draft roadmap to mobile and wireless broadband services, and the launch of spectrum trading and liberalisation.