how to influence Ofcom
A few thoughts...
- Cameron's comments on abolishing Ofcom were aimed at Ofcom's work on broadcasting and not "technical" issues like spectrum pricing. Whether or not one agrees with this, do nbot hold your breath for a conservative govt to "save" GA here...
- I would suggest that all who are concerned should reply - both organisations and individuals. But just saying that Ofcom are wrong or that this will hurt safety will have little impact. Ofcom are "evidenced based" and to have any chance of influencing them then need to show why will hurt safety with logic or evidence.
- Writing to MPs and getting them on board can also not hurt - especially those with an aviation bent I would have thought.
In terms of the substance here - these charges are meant to influence the incentives to use spectrum efficiently. Any arguments need to be linked back to Ofcom duties to encourage efficient spectrum usage. How is a charge going to increase efficient specturm usage in aviation bands? It will only push all radio usage to those airports and users best able to pay - but "efficient" usage should mean maximising safe use of the skies which is achieved by ALL aircraft and airfields using radio efficiently -not just those most able to pay. Am still reading this document and will post further with any more thoughts.