UPDATE REPORT ON REORGANISATION OF VHF RADIO MICROPHONE FREQUENCIES

Initially, at the July User Group meeting called by the Joint Frequency Management Group Ltd and the Radiocommunication Agency, JFMG Ltd outlined their proposals for the reorganisation of the VHF radio microphone spectrum. Sandy MacRae, Patrick Heigham and Ian Voigt represented AMPS, and following the meeting, Sandy and Patrick made a highly detailed response, explaining the current usage of Radio Mics on Film and TV productions and asked for clarification of a number of points. A useful and explicit reply was received from Joe Sonke of the RA and consequently, Sandy and Patrick went to JFMG and the RA for a head-to-head consultation on November 6th to discuss particular matters in greater detail. A good natured and discerning meeting took place and a complete resume of AMPS' dealings on behalf of members will appear shortly, probably as a separate mailing. In brief we may have obtained one or two concessions, namely:

• The possible usage, on a secondary basis, of those ITV frequencies that have been shifted into the block designated for News use. These may well be included within the block group fee of £160 for up to 8 selected frequencies.
• A fixed site would refer to the whole of a studio complex, rather than an individual sound stage, which had been implied in the original wording.
• The 'Shared Frequencies' block would be perfectly usable in a studio situation, obviating the necessity of a second set of frequencies for productions working in and out of studios and locations.
• The current popular shared frequency of 199.700 MHz has been reinstated, but may be subject to interference from 1 watt OB programme links.

JFMG would not commit to stating that adopting UHF frequencies might be a better bet overall, although they foresaw no change in the new arrangements until at least 2000. Sandy and Patrick both felt that the VHF spectrum is in peril, if we cannot show that it is regularly used. In fact, this was very clearly stated in Joe Sonke's reply. The only way to protect this band, is for individuals to accept that they must pay for, and take out, licences. Some discussion took place on likely penalties for illegal (ie unlicensed) use. Fines, custodial sentences and confiscation, not only of the radio equipment itself, but also of ancillary equipment to which it is connected, are distinct possibilities. The latter point should interest camera and production personnel, since expensive camera gear is at risk, as would be the continuation of the production itself.

PATRICK HEIGHAM (As presented to AMPS Council meeting 10/11/98)