Spectrum (international work)

Radio spectrum is a valuable resource which is limited in supply, highly sought-after and essential to modern economies.

Ofcom manages the UK spectrum allocation and has a duty to ensure it is used in the most effective way. Our work involves releasing spectrum for new uses as well as developing policies to ensure that the spectrum is used efficiently. Much of this work requires international effort, co-ordinating with our counterparts both in Europe and globally. Ofcom represents the UK Government on matters of international spectrum policy.

Ofcom leads for the UK in the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) and European Conference of Post and Telecoms (CEPT). This means that we represent the UK at World Radiocommunications Conferences (WRCs) which are held approximately every 4 years and lead for the UK in the European preparatory work for each Conference. We also engage extensively in the various spectrum committees and working groups of both ITU and CEPT and ensure that UK interests are appropriately reflected in international spectrum work

Before leaving the European Union, Ofcom was an active member of the EU’s Radio Spectrum Policy Group (RSPG) and represented the UK in the Radio Spectrum Committee (RSC). We will and we continue to engage with all our European counterparts to address issues of common interest.

To find out more about our international spectrum work, click on the links below.

Contact International.Spectrum@ofcom.org.uk for information on our international spectrum work and for information on how to join the email briefing groups.