New European advisory group to report on UHF spectrum for TV

Former World Trade Organisation chief Pascal Lamy has been appointed to lead a new European advisory group on the use of ultra high frequency (UHF) spectrum for TV and wireless broadband. 

Lamy, along with top executives from Europe’s broadcasters, network operators, mobile companies and tech associations, will make proposals to the European Commission on how to use the UHF spectrum band (470-790 MHz) most effectively in coming decades. A final report is due to be delivered to the Europe’s digital commissioner Neelie Kroes by July 2014.

“Europe needs to use spectrum more effectively if we want to benefit from the latest TV and internet developments. That’s why we need a new consensus on how to use broadcast spectrum,” said Kroes.

“The TV viewing habits of young people bear no resemblance to that of my generation. The rules need to catch-up in a way that delivers more and better television and more and better broadband. Current spectrum assignments won’t support consumer habits of the future – based on huge amounts of audiovisual consumption through broadband and IPTV.”