Ofcom simplifies business radio licensing

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Regulator Ofcom is embarking on a licence simplification programme to make it easier for businesses that rely on radio technology to communicate.

The plan is to reduce the number of licence types, which cover 50,000 licensees spanning companies like cab and courier firms, utilities and shop chains, in operation from 21 to five by early 2008.

Light licences, of which there will be three types, will be the most simplistic form of licensing as they will not require users to coordinate with other spectrum users.

The second type of new licensee will be area defined and the third will be technically assigned to specialist or dedicated services in a particular area.

Businesses will be able to apply for and manage the new licences online using a newly-created service called the Mobile Assignment Technical System (MASTS).

"At present, there are 21 different BR licence products for different types of business. For example, there are different licences for paging or for data. Consequently, a firm wishing to change the nature of its business or to diversify may well have to apply to Ofcom for a new licence or a variation of its existing licence," said the regulator in a statement.

"This can hold back desirable changes in spectrum use to the detriment of consumers and businesses and constitutes a regulatory burden on businesses. The changes described in this statement will streamline the product range into just 5 separate licence products, which will give licensees greater flexibility to use radio for a wide range of business activities without the need to seek Ofcom's permission for change of use and will also bring about improvements in the efficiency with which spectrum is utilised."

Each new category will be more flexible than previous licences, opening up greater freedom of choice for users in selecting the technology they use. Minimum technical specifications will remain in force to avoid harmful interference.

The communications watchdog has also announced a new fee structure for licences covered by the Wireless Telegraphy Act. From next year, corporate radio fees will be based on the geographical location and coverage required, while a flat fee will be applied to Community Radio licences.

Fees for other types of spectrum usage, including satellite and programme-making links, will also be reconsidered.

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