Spectrum Trading and Switchover: Two Speeds?

The Radio Spectrum Policy Group (RSPG) consists of representatives of Member States and the European Commission, along with representatives of EEA and candidate countries that act as observers. It was established in 2003 to assist and advise the Commission on radio spectrum policy issues. Mr. Mike Goddard, Director of Spectrum Policy Executive for Ofcom acts as the Vice Chairman of the Group while Mr. Julian Mackenney (Head of Spectrum Strategy at Ofcom) is the only other representative for the UK.

The Group has recently delivered two opinions on the spectrum implications of switchover to digital broadcasting and on spectrum trading .The Group underlines that a more efficient use of the frequencies through digital transmission offers the potential for a considerable �spectrum dividend� that could be used to deliver enhanced broadcasting and other electronic communications services. Two seem to be the messages in this respect: first, the sooner the better; second, together better than alone. Coordination at the EU level is thus encouraged. The Group proposes initiatives such as information sharing, EU-wide public workshops or the production of egular reports on national plans and strategies.

And what about the spectrum? Here the ideas appear less clear. Although the benefits of secondary trading are highlighted, the Group believes that there are some categories of frequencies that should be carefully considered or even fully excluded from trading, at least initially. Among these, not surprisingly, are those used by terrestrial broadcasts and those allocated to the broadcasting satellite service and the fixed satellite service when used for DTH television. The RSPG suggests that rules should not be drafted until the MS have greater experience in secondary trading, as it could delay the development in countries where secondary trading is introduced and impact negatively in those that are hesitant.

The question remains: is the objective of rapid switchover compatible with a �wait-and-see� approach with regards to spectrum trading?

Monica Ari�o