§ Sir John Pageasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether he will publish the report from CSP International on the feasibility of introducing market forces into the management of radio spectrum.
§ Mr. PattieI have now received the final report by CSP International entitled "Deregulation of the Radio Spectrum in the UK." This complex study has taken nearly two years to complete and deals with all types of civil use of the radio spectrum. A steering group, including officials of my Department, has overseen development of the work, but the views expressed in the report are those of an independent firm of consultants. The Department is still appraising its full implications for radio users and spectrum management policy. The study does not therefore necessarily anticipate the future attitude of the Department on policies for spectrum management.
None the less, the findings of the study will be of interest to a wide range of existing and potential users of spectrum, service providers and manufacturers of equipment. The report is being published today by Her Majesty's Stationery Office and my Department would welcome views and comments on the analysis and proposals in the report, particularly the scope for deregulation and frequency planning organisations.
Copies of the report have been placed in the Library.