Need advice? Call our experts free on
0800 090 1342
3 Mobile chief warns of 4G spectrum auction delays
David Dyson argued 3 Mobile's rivals are keen to see the spectrum sell-off pushed back.
Speaking to the Financial Times, David Dyson claimed there is a "significant risk" that other carriers will look to push back the sell-off, which is scheduled to take place next year.
According to Mr Dyson, Everything Everywhere, O2 and Vodafone would be happy to see a delay following Ofcom's decision earlier this year to enable spectrum that was previously reserved for calls and texts to be used for 3G data services.
At the time, the regulator insisted the move would lead to enhanced mobile broadband coverage in rural areas, improved access inside buildings, greater consistency of service and more capacity, meaning networks could offer higher speeds and cope with more people online simultaneously.
"It is up to Ofcom and the government to take a strong lead to make sure that any potential disruption to the auction is dealt with effectively because O2, Vodafone and Everything Everywhere are all incentivised differently to defer that auction for as long as possible," Mr Dyson remarked.
His fears were revealed in the wake of O2 threatening to sue the government over the auction, with the network operator stating it is opposed to the proposed use of spectrum floors.
This measure could potentially see all bidders except O2 and Vodafone acquire spectrum at a discounted rate, which O2 stated is tantamount to state aid and therefore illegal under EU law.
Highlighting Ofcom's own figures, O2 claimed the implementation of spectrum floors could effectively cost the taxpayer as much as £1 billion.
Responding to Mr Dyson's calls, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport - which is responsible for the government's telecoms policy - explained it had tasked Ofcom with organising the spectrum auction, but is not considering any additional action at present.