Reply, etc. from Radio Regulatory Council concerning Plan for Partial Revision of Ministerial Ordinances relating to Introduction of Inmarsat GSPS Models, etc.

1. Background

　Recently, there has been renewed recognition of the usefulness of satellite-based mobile phones in times of large-scale disasters, and there is increasing need for such phones in preparation for disasters, etc. For this reason, the intention is to conduct maintenance, etc. of relevant regulations so as to enable the provision in Japan of services of GSPS (Global Satellite Phone Services) models (hereinafter, “GSPS models”), which are satellite-based mobile phones including small handy-type phones using the Inmarsat satellite.

　There are also plans for the maintenance of inspection standards for the 3G Argos system (a system for the collection of observed data by means of observation equipment installed on buoys or living things, etc. via the Argos satellite), together with partial revision of bulletins, etc. to enable simple operation of other wireless equipment without the need for radio engineers.

　The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) drafted a plan for partial revision of ministerial ordinances, etc. accompanying the introduction of Inmarsat GSPS models, etc., and an appeal for opinions on this plan was held from December 28, 2011 to January 30, 2012.

2. Council reply, and results from appeal for opinions

(1) On February 10, 2012, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) submitted an inquiry to the Radio Regulatory Council concerning a ministerial ordinance plan for partial revision of Radio Law Enforcement Regulations as well as a bulletin plan for partial modification of the frequency allocation plan for the introduction of Inmarsat GSPS models, and a reply was received from the Council stating its approval of the original motions.

(2) From December 28, 2011 to January 30, 2012, an appeal was held for opinions concerning the plan for partial revision of ministerial ordinances, etc. relating to the introduction of Inmarsat GSPS models, etc., in response to which three opinions were submitted.

　Accordingly, based on these opinions it has been decided to carry out revisions as per the ministerial ordinance plan for partial revision of Wireless Equipment Regulations as well as the bulletin plan for partial revision of 2004 Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) Bulletin No. 859.

3. Schedule

　The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) will promptly revise the relevant ministerial ordinances, etc. based on the submitted opinions and the reply from the Radio Regulatory Council.

Related reports and documents, etc.

Appeal for Opinions on System Maintenance for Introduction of Inmarsat GSPS Models, etc. - Appeal for Opinions on Ministerial Ordinance Plan for Partial Revision of Radio Law Enforcement Regulations, etc. (December 27, 2011)