Radio Spectrum Licences and
Auctions
Thursday 20th January, 2.00pm
Jubilee Room, House of Commons
The daily usage of wireless devices contributes an estimated £42Billion1 to the UK
economy, with uses ranging from smart-phones to air traffic control. Consumer
demand for wireless technology has increased dramatically and so has the demand for
radio spectrum licences. Ofcom, the spectrum regulator, now auctions licences, and
allows licences to be traded.
With the government’s commitment to universal broadband access expected to further
increase demand for spectrum and a major auction of licences early 2012, radio
spectrum management is now a key issue for UK industry and consumers. This event
will allow members to explore critical decisions on spectrum licensing.
Programme:
o
10 years on from the 3G Auction - The auction of 3G mobile phone licences, in 2000,
generated £22billion of revenue. What are the challenges for forthcoming UK auctions?
o
Wireless broadband and universal coverage for high speed broadband - How should
wireless technology be used to give rural populations fast broadband access?
o
Spectrum capping and spectrum hording - Should companies and crown bodies be able to
hold unlimited spectrum, for unlimited time periods? What are the implications for UK R&D?
o
The global perspective: How will auctions in other countries affect the UK? How does EU
policy impact the UK?
The Panel - Chaired by Therese Coffey, MP:
Matthew Conway
Director, Government and Parliamentary Business, Ofcom,
Julian McGougan
Head of Public Policy & Regulatory Affairs, Arqiva
Martin Sims
Managing Editor, Policy Tracker
Raj Sivalingam
Associate Director for Telecoms and Spectrum, Intellect
Please bring this invitation with you to access the Houses of Parliament via the Visitor Entrance and allow twenty minutes
to clear security.
1
Economic impact of the use of radio spectrum in the UK, by Europe Economics, - Published by Ofcom 2006
Photo is © Copyright Eleanor Miller and licensed for reuse under the Creative Commons Licence