Ofcom is today announcing that, following consideration of consultation responses, we have amended the regulations setting the fees payable for the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz spectrum.
The fees are paid annually by mobile network operators for the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz spectrum bands, which they use to provide voice and data services using a mix of 2G, 3G and 4G technologies.
Earlier this year the Office for National Statistics changed the reference year (in which CPI = 100) used to calculate the all items consumer price index from 2005 to 2015. This statement reflects that change.
The amendments will ensure the method for calculating the fees payable for the 900 MHz frequency band and the 1800 MHz frequency band remains the same as intended by Ofcom’s decision of 24 September 2015. Specifically, the amending regulations will ensure the licence fees payable for the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz spectrum from 31st October 2016 onwards continue to vary in line with inflation, as provided for in that decision.