Paul Keinanen wrote:
From the European perspective, I do not understand this discussion.
Most European countries (except Russia) removed the CW requirement
after a few months of the ITU WRC decision that CW test is not
required at frequencies below 30 MHz.

I don't know if or when they dropped it), but the Soviet Union had
a no code HF license starting around 1956. Japan also had one
at one time.

From the point of view of the "DX", like you Paul, I'm glad that
the low end of the 40m and 75 meter phone bands was extended. I PREFER
SSB, a 20 meters has been open to the U.S. on "good days" for around
20 minutes.

Due to the influence of the Israel Amateur Radio Club, the code
requirement has been kept. With the IARC's other policies, including
operating events when relgious hams can't operate, pushing for
a five year requirement to convert a foreign license for new immegrants,
etc, they really have become the superfulous old man's CW club,
dragging the hobby down with them.

Geoff.

--
Geoffrey S. Mendelson, Jerusalem, Israel N3OWJ/4X1GM
IL Voice: (07)-7424-1667 Fax ONLY: 972-2-648-1443 U.S. Voice: 1-215-821-1838
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