This statement follows a public consultation by Ofcom and the Radiocommunications Agency on proposals for the introduction of spectrum trading in the United Kingdom. The consultation, which was published in November 2003, explained that the introduction of spectrum trading and liberalisation would help to encourage efficient use of spectrum by enabling it to be transferred to, and used by, the user that values it most.
Ofcom's overall approach to spectrum management will be set out in the Spectrum Framework Review, one of Ofcom's three major reviews, due to be published in Q4 of this year. Spectrum trading and liberalisation fit within the Framework Review as the key mechanisms in the implementation of a market forces approach to spectrum management.