[UK-CONTEST] 50MHz UKAC and the new bandplan

[DAVID BUTLER]

The sub-band 50.100-50.200MHz is now allocated for intercontinental and international usage for both CW and SSB.
You can play contests in this segment if you want.
 50.100-50.130MHz is specified for intercontinental usage. 
50.110MHz is designated for intercontinental calling 
50.150MHz designated for international calling
The 100kHz slot between 50.200-50.300MHz is for general CW and SSB usage and casual operators and contesters, particularly when making run of the mill tropo contacts, are *encouraged* to use this area to relieve congestion within the DX part of the band. 
So you can play contests from 50.100 all the way to 50.300MHz  or lower if you use CW. 

The encouragement to use 50.200 to 50.300MHz has nothing to do with the band plan.
Of course when the band is open via Es, Au, F2 etc your will make the most of your contest DX contacts 
lower down the band.   
73, David G4ASR
VHF Manager - resigned  31/12/2011