Ofcom caps spectrum volumes for mobile firms

Ofcom will introduce a cap on the amount of mobile spectrum any network can control ahead of an auction of airwaves to support the expansion of 4G and 5G.

In plans outlined yesterday, the regulator said the cap, set at 37 per cent, will restrict EE and Vodafone in the auction process, due to take place later this year.

Philip Marnick, Ofcom’s spectrum director, said: “We’ve designed this auction to ensure that people and businesses continue to benefit from strong competition for mobile services.”

However, smaller operators such as Three wanted the cap to be set at between 30 per cent and 35 per cent.

Ofcom said: “We take all our decisions in the interests of consumers.”