§ The Earl of Northeskasked Her Majesty's Government:
What purpose is intended to be achieved by permitting regional development agencies to bid for licences in the forthcoming 3.4GHz spectrum auction. [HL1986]
§ Lord Sainsbury of TurvilleThe award of radio licences at 3.4GHz is part of the strategy to help meet the Government's aim to maximise the extensiveness and competitiveness of UK broadband provision. We are aiming to build a broadband Britain by offering services through as many platforms as possible, such as a number of wireless spectrum bands including the 3.4GHz spectrum.
Any body corporate may make an application to take part in the forthcoming 3.4GHz spectrum auction. Applications may he refused where the grant of a licence to that applicant would be prejudicial to the interests of national security or the applicant would not be a fit and proper person to hold a licence.
No specific provisions have been made to allow regional development agencies to take part in the auction, but nor do we believe that it is necessary to exclude them from the auction.