[kiwi]

Hey guys,
Please don't laugh but I gave up CB radio back in 1990 when I had the 27/81 system which was 40 channels on FM.Since then I understand the CB scene in England has changed and the Government has allowed new/more channels to be used.I am thinking about getting back into the CB radio scene again.I still have my 11metre antenna,13.8 volt power pack and the antenna brackets but don't have a CB set.I want to know what the legal system is here in England at present and what the regulations are.Do you still need a licence?It was £12 when I last had one.Maybe someone can give a link or two directing me to any releting websites.I would be very greatful for this.Many thanks guys...........

[mikeydb]

Okay,

the CB 27/81 service is still around, but it will be illegal in a couple of years. Yes there is now another 40 channels available to use, however don't expect much apart from a few germans during high sunspot activity.

You currently need a licence, they cost £15.

Along with the scrapping of the 27/81 service, licences will also be scrapped. To continue using CB legally you will need a new radio conforming to the PR27GB standard or similar.

Old 27/81 CB radios will be illegal.

http://www.nevadaradio.co.uk/cb.html

[Everything Goes]

OFTEL started the ball rolling on the deregulation of CB radio last year and they did intened to scrap the UK 27/81 40 channels leaving the CEPT 40 channels. They also talked about getting rid of the licence in July this year. However now OFCOM have taken over they have been strangley silent on the subject. No announcments about anything as yet!

CB radio has died a slow death in the last few years due to mobile phones, the net and the easy to do Foundation Amateur radio course which most of the keen 27Mhz Dxers have gone and done. When you do get a radio you may find it to be a ghost town. It may be a better idea to follow the ham radio route more channels and more people to speak to.

http://www.rsgb.org