§ Mr. GaleTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether the review of the civil use of radio frequency spectrum between 470 and 3400 MHz has been completed; and whether he will publish the report.
§ Mr. AtkinsThe committee studying civil use of the radio frequency spectrum from 470 to 3400 MHz has completed its review and my right hon. and noble Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry is today publishing the report. Copies of the report have been placed in the Library.
This review was initiated as part of a rolling programme recommended by the Merriman committee, to audit present use of the radio spectrum, to analyse emerging developments and to assess potential new demands. The report on the corresponding independent review of defence use of this part of the radio spectrum, chaired by Sir Kenneth Corfield, was published in June 1988.
I am sure that industry and users will welcome this report for its in-depth analysis of the current uses and future demands in this key portion of the radio spectrum. The United Kingdom is already at the forefront in exploring innovative ways of exploiting this crucial, finite, natural resource, and I believe the report makes a significant contribution to the technical base from which United Kingdom can maintain its position at the leading edge of telecommunications exploitation throughout the 1990s and beyond.
The review was conducted on the basis of existing policy regarding management and allocation of the radio 525W spectrum, and is being published in advance of detailed consideration by Government to stimulate interest and to promote discussion.