§ Mr. David StewartTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what(a) estimate he has made and (b) research he has (i) commissioned and (ii) evaluated on the value of the sale of the analogue wave band to public funds. [174047]
§ Ruth KellyThe terms and method of reallocation of radio spectrum released by digital switchover are a matter for Ofcom. Additionally, the scope of future uses will be dependent on the result of international negotiations commencing in 2006. Hence, the Government are not currently in a position to make an estimate of the likely value of spectrum.
However, the Government have produced an economic cost-benefit analysis of digital switchover. The positive result of this study informed the Government's decision to confirm their support for switchover in September 2003 as it will bring significant benefits to consumers and to broadcasters. A summary of the results can be found at: www.digitaltelevision.gov.uk