Ofcom plans to make ships’ radio licences valid for the entire life of the vessel, and to make these licences available on a self-service basis and free of charge, when issued online via a new dedicated web-based service.

The proposals would ease administration and reduce costs for ships’ radio users who are currently required to renew their licence annually at a cost of £20.

Some maritime radio users are reluctant to use licensed equipment because of the present regime; Ofcom believes that this new approach will make it easier for users to comply with legal obligations and use radio equipment that is appropriately licensed.