6 March 2002
Government welcomes Independent Review of Spectrum. Wide-ranging recommendations for future of spectrum management
The Government welcomed the publication today of the Independent Review of Spectrum Management, conducted by Professor Martin Cave.
The independent review, announced in March 2001, was established to look at the future of spectrum management, and develop principles that will underpin an economically efficient use of radio spectrum. The review published an issues paper in June 2001, setting out initial areas of interest, and consulted widely with industry, academia and Government.
The review has made 47 wide-ranging recommendations that include:
- auctions to be used as the preferred means to assign spectrum;
- granting trading rights to help develop the market for spectrum trading; and
- liberalising restrictions on use of individual spectrum bands.
Douglas Alexander, E-commerce Minister, said:
?Spectrum is an invaluable national asset. It is a vital resource for essential public services and the key to success for many industries.
?But it is a finite resource and we need the right balance of market incentives and regulation to make sure it is used as efficiently as possible.
?This independent review has addressed these issues.?
Paul Boateng, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, said:
?I welcome the publication today of this review of spectrum management and thank Martin Cave and his team for their work. The review raises important questions about the efficient management of this essential public asset. Government and industry needs to take time to consider the recommendations in the review, which is why we are inviting comments on the report. We hope to present a formal government response in the summer.?
Notes for editors
- The Government invites further comment on the Review's recommendations. Comments can be sent to: Laurence Green, Radiocommunications Agency, Wyndham House,189 Marsh Wall, London E14 9SX, or e-mailed to Spectrum The closing date for responses is Friday 10 May.
- The Independent Review of Spectrum Management, jointly commissioned by the DTI and H M Treasury, was first announced in the Pre Budget Report, November 2000. The review remit and the appointment of Professor Martin Cave were announced in March 2001.
- Professor Martin Cave, of Warwick Business School, formerly Vice Principal of Brunel University, has published on a wide range of subjects, including telecommunications regulation and spectrum management as well as competition policy and higher education. He has also advised OFTEL and a number of regulatory bodies. He is a member of the Competition Commission.
- More information about the review, and to download a copy of the report, please visit the Spectrum Review website.
- The Communications White Paper was published in December 2000 by the Department for Trade and Industry, and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. It sets out the institutional framework for communications regulation, including the establishment of a single regulator for the sector. This single regulator will incorporate the spectrum management functions of the Radiocommunications Agency.