3.1 There is an important international dimension to a potential change of use of the 700 MHz band. We will need international agreements both in relation to the future use of the 700 MHz band, if it is to be used for mobile broadband, and in order to re-plan the use of the spectrum which would remain in use for DTT and other services sharing the DTT spectrum.
3.2 International agreements are required when deploying or re-planning high power services, such as broadcasting, to avoid interference across national borders. They also help maximise the benefits to UK citizens and consumers because harmonisation of spectrum use across borders generally increases economies of scale, widening the availability of consumer equipment and reducing prices.