I'd point to a number of initiatives we have done for spectrum management in Canada. Since 2008, the government has more than doubled the amount of spectrum available for commercial mobile services through the spectrum auction AWS-1 in 2008 as well as auctions for 700 MHz AWS-3 and 2500 MHz. These spectrum licences include deployment conditions to ensure the spectrum is put into use in a timely manner.
Building on these efforts, we are in the process of repurposing the 600 MHz band for mobile use. As you know, the band carries signals well over long distances. It's excellent for delivering commercial mobile use. We will be conducting a public consultation on the licensing rules at a later date, and, as you noted, we are in very close contact with our FCC counterparts on this.
Concerning 5G, it is an important new technology that will be a key driver of the Internet of things and that involves a significant increase in speed and the number of connected devices, and, yes, absolutely, the government has an important role to play in leadership regarding spectrum management, privacy, security, and standards development. As well, 5G will be a consideration in our approach to digital policy under the innovation and skills plan.
We are very much on top of these issues and in very close collaboration with our FCC counterparts on these issues.