WASHINGTON, DC – CTIA-The Wireless Association® President and CEO Steve Largent issued the following statement today in response to a letter from Google to the Federal Communications Commission asking for special conditions in the upcoming 700 MHz spectrum auction, and pledging to bid at least $4.6 billion for that spectrum if Google's conditions are met:

 “The veil has been lifted. Google's letter to the FCC this morning highlights the Internet giant's scheme to have the 700 MHz auction rigged with special conditions in its favor. If Google is willing to commit almost $5 billion dollars for spectrum that it wants encumbered with various requirements, then let it win that spectrum in a competitive auction and choose that business model. Google and its allies, with their collective market capitalization approaching half a trillion dollars, don't need a government handout at taxpayers' expense. The competitive wireless industry welcomes all new entrants, but no company should be able to buy a custom-fit government regulation that suits their particular business plan. Consumers should decide if they're right, not the federal government”.