EXPLANATORY NOTE

(This note is not part of the Regulations)

These Regulations give effect to the European Commission Decision 2007/131/EC(1) on allowing the use of radio spectrum equipment using ultra-wideband technology in a harmonised manner in the Community. These Regulations exempt the establishment, installation or use of equipment using ultra-wideband technology from the requirement to be licensed under section 8(1) of the Wireless Telegraphy Act 2006 (c.36) (the “Act”).

Regulation 3 exempts the establishment, installation or use of equipment complying with the specifications in regulation 4 from the need to be licensed under the Act. Under regulation 4, the exemption is limited to equipment which will be operated indoors (paragraph (2)(a)), or where it is not used indoors, is not attached to a fixed installation, fixed infrastructure, fixed outdoor antenna, or an automotive vehicle or railway vehicle (paragraph (2)(b)), does not cause or contribute to undue interference (paragraph (3)), and which only emits transmissions at the specified frequency bands in accordance with the maximum power levels set out in paragraphs (4) and (5).

A full regulatory impact assessment and report of the effect of the Regulations will have on the costs to business is available from OFCOM at Riverside House, 2a Southwark Bridge Road, London SE1 9HA (tel: 020 7981 3000) or on the OFCOM internet web site at www.ofcom.org.uk. Copies of the report have also been placed in the libraries of both Houses of Parliament.

(1)

OJ No L55, 23.2.07, p33.