Swedish Government Decides on 700Mhz Frequency
The Swedish Government decided to give (MSB) the task, within its remit, to start preparing for how the future communication solution for operators in the public order, safety, health (the so-called blue-light players) and defense can be developed.
The Government today decided that broadcast space 694-790 MHz may be granted a permit for television transmissions to and including 31 May 2018. The decision means that the so-called 700 MHz band may continue to be used for terrestrial television inclusive May 31, 2018.
The government has also decided to give the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB) the task, within its remit, to start preparing for how the future communication solution for operators in the public order, safety, health (the so-called blue-light players) and defense can be developed.
The security policy development makes it all the more important that the state actors in public policy, public security, health and defense can communicate and exchange information effectively and safely. The reason for the government's decision is thus the change in the security situation that allows the defense and public safety agencies use must be ensured. Against this background, the Government has today taken a decision concerning the broadcasting space in the so-called 700-belt.
- It is vital with a better mobile coverage and broadband access in all parts of Sweden. At the same time, it is necessary that the actors in the public order, security, health and defense can communicate and exchange information effectively and safely with each other. The government's view is that both interests must be reconciled, said housing and digitization Minister Peter Eriksson.
- Secure and developed communication is of vital importance for Sweden's security. This is particularly true of a total defense perspective, says Defence Minister Peter Hultqvist.
There is currently an investigation into how the needs can be met. Now also MSB starts a preparation for how future communications solution for community key players can be developed.
The government believes that among other things there is a need for a judicial review of certain frequency issues.
The two companies that currently have permission to use frequencies may continue to do so under current license conditions.
The successful work of operators in the terrestrial television conducted to release the 700 band for other uses can continue.
This means that the auction of the 700 MHz band has been cancelled for now.