Ofcom has released its final decisions following its consultation on the amateur radio licensing framework last year. Revised licence conditions became effective on Wednesday the 21st of February 2024. The changes to licence conditions include the optional use of Regional Secondary Locators, increased transmitter power levels and provide greater opportunity to bring newcomers into amateur radio. There are approximately 100,000 amateur radio licences issued by Ofcom in the UK. Ofcom says that it will shortly be contacting all licensees to provide each with their new licence document. Ofcom is aiming to reissue all UK amateur radio licences by the autumn of 2024. To help this process run as efficiently as possible, please ensure that your contact details are up to date in the Ofcom licensing system. Further updates to the amateur radio licensing framework, including the issuing of M8 and M9 Intermediate callsigns, will be rolled out in two more phases later this year and in the 2024/25 year. A video entitled ‘Updating the amateur radio licensing framework: RSGB overview of key changes’ is available in the Ofcom playlist on the RSGB’s YouTube channel which you can find at youtube.com/theRSGB In it, RSGB General Manager Steve Thomas, M1ACB and RSGB Spectrum Forum Chair Murray Niman, G6JYB discuss the impact of the new rules. They also describe how the RSGB worked with Ofcom before and during the consultation period to arrive at the best outcome for all UK amateurs. Steve, Murray, and many people across the RSGB, have also worked hard to engage with individual amateurs, and amateur radio clubs and groups, to help them prepare for the licensing changes. The RSGB will continue to release information and support for radio amateurs as we all adapt to the new arrangements. You can read more details and guidance on the Ofcom website at tinyurl.com/ARFEB2024.
Given that increased transmitter power limits are now available to UK licensees, all amateurs are reminded that they are required to carry out EMF assessments. To help you do this, advice and an online EMF calculator can be found at rsgb.org/emf
The RSGB Band Plans for 2024 were published in the March issue of RadCom. They are also available via the RSGB website at rsgb.org/bandplans This year’s changes support the new Ofcom licensing framework and guidance, particularly in the VHF and UHF bands. All amateurs are reminded to consult the Band Plans before operating.