§ Sir Donald ThompsonTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what research the Government have conducted on self-trunking technologies in radio communications with a view to requiring less burdensome individual regulations.
§ Mr. McLoughlinThe Government recognise the value of self-trunking technology in radiocommunications particularly as this could reduce the need for individual frequency assignments. A number of existing standards—such as CT2—cordless telephones—DECT—digital European cordless telecommunications—and DSRRdigital short range radio—are based on self-trun king principles.
There are technical problems associated with the use of self-trunking for longer range services. The Radio-communications Agency has undertaken studies on the application of self-trunking for private mobile radio services and further work is being commissioned as part of the agency's programme of research to promote efficient use of the radio spectrum.
§ Sir Donald ThompsonTo ask the President of the Board of Trade if he will make a statement on the progress which has been made towards eliminating the need for licences in the case of low-power radio devices.
§ Mr. McLoughlinMuch progress has been made in eliminating the need for licensing these devices. The statutory instrument "The Wireless Telegraphy (Short Range Devices) (Exemption) Regulations 1993"—SI No. 1993/1591—consolidated previous such regulations and lists the 16 major categories of devices which are licence exempt. Other licensed services are continually reviewed as candidates for exemption.