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Ofcom consults on simpler business-radio licences
Ofcom opened a 2006 consultation on a simpler licensing model for private radio communications used by businesses, utilities, transport operators and emergency services.
From 21 licences to three categories
The proposal would replace 21 licence types covering 50,000 licensees with three categories. Within them, restrictions on the permitted business-radio use and technology would be removed, and some new licences would become tradable.
The consultation covered uses from on-site and wide-area voice and data systems to meter reading, asset tracking, hospital paging and emergency communications. Ofcom also envisaged online applications for 15,000 licensees and a five-year flat-fee licence. Responses were due by 15 September, making this a consultation proposal rather than an adopted licensing regime.