Better phone coverage

THERE are plans to increase the coverage of the mobile phone network, after an agreement with the government and the various providers, that should benefit boaters.

The result is that Ofcom has now varied the licences of the four mobile network operators to improve mobile coverage across the country, Keith Gudgin tells us.

Increase coverage

This variation commits the providers to increase the voice coverage across 90% of the county by the end of 2017.

In light of these variations, Ofcom will consult with the providers on the annual licence fees for the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz spectrum bands, now that the government has directed Ofcom to revise these fees to reflect full market value after the completion of the 4G auction.

Better for boaters

Many boaters have experienced areas on the system where there is no coverage, it being particularly annoying for continuous cruisers who travel the system, so the upgrade in coverage will certainly benefit such boaters.