The aim is to ensure that all users of radio spectrum, including non-commercial users, are focused on using their spectrum in an economically efficient way.

Oftel's view is that the way spectrum is managed will have important consequences for UK competitiveness. With convergence and the increasing speed of technological change, a move to a more market-based management regime is necessary and should be the main way of managing the radio spectrum.

Oftel believes that by focusing on the use of spectrum to promote competition, consumers will benefit from telecommunications services that use radio spectrum, or where spectrum-based services can provide close substitutes.

David Edmonds welcomed the opportunity to respond to this important and timely review of the future conduct of spectrum management, with the purpose of promoting UK competitiveness.

Oftel believes that the current regime of central allocation and assignment has been successful in the past. However, the pace of technological change, and the ever increasing demand for spectrum require a radical rethink of such policies if UK competitiveness is not to suffer in the medium to long term.

Oftel will continue to work with the Radiocommunications Agency on the conclusions of the review to take forward the ideas and recommendations that promote competition. The two agencies will ensure that spectrum management is on the agenda as work to set up OFCOM continues.

For further information contact Roberto Ercole (tel: 020 7634 8905 / e-mail: roberto.ercole@oftel.gov.uk).