DAB radio on VHF Band II - Ed Vaisey's statement to House of Commons on Thursday

Ed Vaizey, the Government Minister responsible for broadcasting, will be making an announcement about the Government's plans for digital radio switchover in the House of Commons on Thursday.

Practical Wireless editor Rob Mannion, G3XFD, has sent the following open letter to the Telegraph newspaper ahead of Mr Vaizey's statement.

Dear Sirs: With the right Hon.Ed Vaisey about to make a statement regarding the imposition of DAB radio on Band II v.h.f. radio services, to replace the practical f.m. broadcasts, it is to be hoped that the new coalition government have listened clearly to all the criticisms regarding the impractical technology and the difficulties of receiving DAB radio services on portable equipment using simple antenna systems (a service the public has been used to for many years).

With the much mentioned huge spending cuts announced by the government, it will be unfortunate indeed if pensioners and those out of work should face the prospect of buying new equipment – all made in Far East – that would most likely provide inferior reception.

I implore Mr Vaisey to take the opportunity to repeal the legislation that will force listeners to buy equipment that's not necessary, and at the same time will also send money overseas to support another country's economy. Keep the money that would be spent in the UK, keep the service that works so well on simple portable receivers and enable as many people to carry on enjoying the essential broadcast radio services as before with simple to use receivers that don't require large amounts of power to operate them and work efficiently. With DAB radio on Band II that's certainly not possible.

Please Sir – Dump the DAB on Band II.

Rob Mannion

Editor Practical Wireless magazine
Broadstone
Dorset BH18 8PW

• Make your views on the subject known to Ed Vaizey prior to him making his announcement.
His email address is: vaizeye@parliament.uk

• Practical Wireless editor Rob Mannion G3XFD has grave doubts about the rush to digital radio, and was amongst the first to highlight the problems that he believes will ensue.

He has launched a national campaign aimed at maintaining essential traditional analogue broadcast radio for everyday listening and for use in times of national emergencies.

Read Save Analogue Radio campaign
http://www.southgatearc.org/news/april2010/
save_analogue_radio.htm

• Click here to support the Save Analogue Radio Campaign