Ofcom Short Call Signs Licencing Problem

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Ofcom has annouced that a small number of two-letter suffix call signs have been issued in error recently. These short-form call signs are anomalous and stem from an IT problem, which Ofcom is addressing.

Ofcom advise us that, although these call signs are not invalid, per se, licensees who have been issued with one should contact Spectrum Licensing at Ofcom on 0300 123 1000 or spectrum.licensing@ofcom.org.uk to discuss changing it for a normal format call sign.

SA Radio Frequency Regulations

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Back in January 2016, the SARL requested ICASA (South Africa's regulator) to consider changes to the following regulation: In Part VII Item 31 (2) including 23 (35), antenna compliance regarding local authorities is covered.

The SARL (South African Radio League) is seeking a revision of this regulation and potentially in a similar format as the FCC PRB1 agreement in the USA regarding the reasonable accommodation of amateur radio antenna installations and zoning ordinances.

ICASA has now advised the SARL they will have to submit a formal proposal for a regulation change. It was agreed that the SARL will table all regulation changes in one document.

UK Amateur Radio Licence Guidance

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A revised copy of the Ofcom document Amateur Radio Licence Guidance for Licensees is available via the Guidance Resources on the RSGB website

Areas of change from the previous edition include:

  • 1.9 - Club licence
  • 1.13 - Use of # in the callsign printed in Section 1 of licence
  • 1.19 - Changing and transferring callsigns
  • 1.21 - Main station address
  • 2.28/.29 - HAREC
  • 2.64 - Licence validation

The Guidance Resources page also contains a link to the UK Territorial Seas map and Operating Guidance for Scottish Waters. These show areas, known as Internal or Inland Waters, where Foundation and Intermediate holders may operate from a vessel.

On internal waters such as the Thames Estuary, Solent or Bristol Channel the optional /M suffix may be used.

UK Amateur Licensing Guidance Resources - http://rsgb.org/main/operating/licensing-novs-visitors/uk-licensing/guidance-resources/