The package covers channel 69, but the Government has exploited technicalities to avoid paying out to those high-end users that tune to channels 31-37 and 61-68, which are also being cleared. It is these additional channels that are needed to produce large-scale events like the Olympics.
Save Our Sound UK responds: The excuse the Government has given is that notice of eviction was given. But what seems to be continually ignored is the fact that no precise alternatives were provided or even now have been published. How can you buy replacement equipment when you don't know what frequencies it can operate on?
All this because the Government seems to want to line its pockets with mobile network operators' cash from the radio spectrum auctions.
Whilst there is some encouragement that the Government has accepted Save Our Sound UK's arguments about longevity and use-value of equipment, it is not known what Vaizey's 'significant contribution' means. Details from Ofcom are expected on that matter.
Save Our Sound UK spokesman said: "To call this package 'generous' is an abuse of the English language. The decision will devastate the small and medium-sized businesses that support the UK's live events industry. Where are they going to find the extra money to continue to do their job? Without them, the large-scale events sector could collapse like a house of cards."
"This shows that the Minister simply does not understand how the Programme Making and Special Events (PMSE) sector works. An injustice has been done. But worse than that - it is an injustice that will have severe consequences."
"The winners are the spectrum-greedy behemoth corporations and the Government. The losers are the little guys. So much for 'Compassionate Conservatism', and where is Business Secretary Vince Cable who supported SOS UK in the first place?"
(Jim Evans)
