Ofcom simplifies Spectrum Trading

Ofcom today has published a statement on simplifying spectrum trading which includes sub-leasing and other enhancements.

Currently Ofcom tend to be heavily involved in the process of trading, now a licensee does not need the consent of Ofcom to trade their spectrum, though some bands such as 2G and 3G bands are still covered by existing requirements.

Ofcom is also allowing leasing and sub-leasing if spectrum so if a licensee has excess capacity they may lease part of their spectrum to a 3rd party, now that 3rd party may also sub-lease part of their spectrum (though the originating licensee must keep accurate records of all sub-leases.

This should allow new innovative services to be launched as there's a lot of spectrum that's been licensed and not being used efficiently.