April 19, 2016

The fees are paid annually by mobile network operators for these bands, which they use to provide voice and data services using a mix of 2G, 3G and 4G technologies.  Ofcom’s proposal is to amend the Wireless Telegraphy (Licence charges for the 900 MHz Frequency Band and the 1800 MHz Frequency Band) (Amendments and Further Provisions) Regulations 2015.

The consultation follows a change to the reference year used by the Office for National Statistics to calculate the all items consumer price index from 2005 to 2015.  The consultation reflects that change.

The proposed amendments would ensure that the method for calculating the fees payable for the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands remains the same as intended by Ofcom’s decision of 24 September 2015.  Specifically, the Regulations would ensure that the licence fees payable for the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz spectrum from 31 October 2016 continue to vary in line with inflation.

The closing date for responses to the consultation is 16 May 2016.  To access the consultation, click here.