[UK-CONTEST] Ofcom/RSGB meeting

[Frank Hunter]

Daniel Schlieper wrote:
> Hi Frank,

Hi Daniel!

> maybe it is not as bad as you think.

It is as bad as I think. I know the complaints about the abuses of the 
FL system to Ofcom number in their thousands and I'm sure the RSGB must 
have received a similar amount of complaints. Where is the incentive? 
The system is unpoliced and instead of using spectrum space as an 
incentive to upgrade which is policable and provable we use power. We 
have all heard the Kilowatt M3's and you'd have to wonder why action 
isn't taken against some high profile M3's in this regard. Why no time 
limit? The FL is supposed to be a means to end, as currently implemented 
it is an end in itself.

> All ex-M3s I know advanced _because_ 
> it is fun to learn (believe it or not). The learning is the incentive, not 
> the hurdle.

Sorry Daniel but that's complete nonsense. What percentage of FL's have 
upgraded to Advanced? The fact is that the FL is pitched at such a low 
level that a large number are simply UNABLE to upgrade, they simply do 
not have the wit. Over here we have those on the bands now who are for 
want of a better term are "mentally challenged" they're going nowhere 
and we're stuck with them. We also have a lot of alcho's, drug pushers 
and foul mouthed scum on the bands now complete with MI3 call signs. 
Couple that with the abuses of the system ie the blatant cheating and it 
is clear the 3 tier scheme is a disaster and now there is even less 
incentive than before to upgrade.

  You can ask any question you want, and always get an honest
> answer. For example, if you wonder why/how a yagi works, just ask. Try 
> that with a CEPT-1 call.
> 
> Besides: there are always three incentives left: the pride of having 
> achieved the next step, and for CEPT-1: the privileges of supervision and 
> operating abroad. 

You'll know as well as I do that a number of enterprising M3's have 
successfully conned various overseas administrations into believing they 
where "proper hams" and have operated abroad.

> If you are afraid of becoming a cynic, I suggest you get involved in the 
> Foundation Licence course of your local club. 

I have no intention of becoming involved with a sytem I detest (I have 
been approached) and will not be responsible for inflicting more harm on 
the long suffering UK amateur community.

73, Frank GI4NKB

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