The deadline for allocating the 694-790 MHz frequency band for use for "wireless broadband electronic communications services" should be extended to the end of 2022 instead of 30 June 2020 as was originally suggested, Italian MEP Stefano Maullu has proposed (15-page / 407KB PDF).
Earlier this year the European Commission published proposals to introduce new laws that would require EU countries to “allow the use of the 694-790 MHz frequency band for terrestrial systems capable of providing wireless broadband electronic communications services”, in accordance with technical conditions it will lay out by 30 June 2020.
The move would require some digital terrestrial television (DTT) services to be shifted onto other frequencies, along with wireless microphones used in programme making and special events (PMSE), such as theatre and musical productions and at sporting events.
In a draft opinion issued for the European Parliament's Committee on Culture and Education, Maullu said extending the deadline would "provide enough time for all member states to ensure the availability of the 700 MHz band for mobile use".
"Some Member States have either already started or planned the repurposing of the 700 MHz band, whilst others have licensed spectrum in the 700 MHz band for broadcasting beyond 2020," the draft opinion said. "The extension of the deadline to the end of 2022 … is therefore necessary to ensure some member states have enough time to adjust."
Maullu also said that the proposed new legislation should be amended to ensure that businesses that are forced to move their services to other frequencies to account for the re-allocation of the 700 MHz band are compensated for costs they incur as a result.
"Repurposing the 700 MHz band may create costs in particular for adapting broadcasting networks and distribution models as well as upgrading PMSE and consumer equipment," Maullu said. "Member states should therefore ensure the timely availability of sufficient funds to cover the migration costs as well as the costs associated with the measures limiting interference to broadcasting services.
Maullu's draft opinion would need to be endorsed by other members of the Parliament's Committee on Culture and Education before it can be submitted to the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy which is leading the Parliament's scrutiny of the Commission's proposals.
The Parliament and Council of Ministers, a body that represents the views of national governments within the EU, both have to vote to approve the same text before the proposals could become law.