"Martin" wrote in message
...

It's funny - that's exactly what many in Australia said 2 years ago, but
look at us now, no code requirement at all! Don't be too quick to expect
FCC to maintain its ground when everyone else is changing....

Hm, well, it'd be nice if the FCC were known for quick and efficient
decisions. I am not sure which regulatory body makes the rules for
Australia's amateur radio ops, but congrats on having such an apparently
efficient one yourselves. The FCC here in America seems to be more concerned
with pushing through technologies that would ultimately ruin the use of the
HF spectrum altogether (BPL) than concern themselves with anything having to
do with amateur radio. I have talked with many American hams about this
subject, and even if we do not agree on what should be done about the code
test, we all agree that the FCC will most likely be exceedingly slow to act
on making a decision about the Code test either way. They have no real
incentive to do so. Then again, why should American hams expect the FCC to
make a quick decision if we can't stop fighting about it amongst ourselves?

I am thinking it will be at least 2-3 years before we hear from them about
the Code test. If it's earlier, fine by me. I have already passed the damned
thing anyway, and couldn't care less if hams that come after me need to pass
it or not.

Cheers to you Down Under, and 73,

Jackie