OFCOM Proposals Could Allow U.K. Broadband To Offer WiMax

LONDON -(Dow Jones)- The U.K. Office of Communications, or Ofcom, said Monday that it has Monday published proposals to amend the Wireless Telegraphy Act licence held by U.K. Broadband.

If granted, it would allow the company to offer mobile WiMax services across the U.K., the regulator said.

U.K. Broadband's current licence permits the company to operate broadband fixed wireless access in the 3.5 GHz band. The company has asked Ofcom to vary its licence to make it technology and service neutral, giving it greater flexibility over how it can use the radio spectrum. It has also sought an increase in its permitted power levels.

In the consultation document published Monday, Ofcom believes that removing such usage restraints placed on the licensee would benefit consumers, encourage competition and optimise use of the spectrum. Ofcom also believes that the likelihood of interference to other users is low.

Ofcom considers that the variation should be made as soon as practicable, subject to the outcome of the consultation. The consultation closes on Aug. 27.

(END) Dow Jones Newswires"

Posted to the site on 18th June 2007