Radio spectrum policy

1.12.2014

Question for written answer E-010023-14
to the Commission
Rule 130
Theresa Griffin (S&D)

The 5.8 GHz frequency band and its applications are of central importance to the implementation of the European transport policy. The EU’s radio spectrum policy (in particular Article 8 thereof) underpins the single market and EU policies such as the European transport policy. Key transport policy goals are: securing social driving hours (Regulation (EU) No 165/2014 — digital tachograph application), prevention of overweight lorries (legislative procedure 2013/0105 (COD) — weights and dimensions application) and the application of the user/polluter pays principle (Directive 2004/52/EC — electronic road charging application). Electronic road charging yields more than EUR 26 billion in annual revenue and is a successful EU export.

1. Does the Commission agree that these applications must run free of any radio frequency interference, and can it provide assurances for the interference-free use of the 5.8 GHz radio frequency for applications such as road charging, and the enforcement of: (a) the digital tachograph; (b) weights and dimensions; and (c) road charging?

2. Can the Commission provide details on the protection covering these applications?