InformationWeek's K.C. Jones reports today that the Save Our Spectrum Coalition is asking the FCC to use the soon-to-be-auctioned 700 MHz spectrum to increase competition for broadband Internet access.

"The Save Our Spectrum Coalition announced Thursday that it is asking the FCC to auction the spectrum and services operated on it in a way that will encourage broadband competition for telephone and cable companies," Jones writes. "It said that will ensure it benefits consumers. The group has many of the same members as SaveTheInternet and backs network neutrality principles. Members of the coalition include Public Knowledge, Media Access Project, Consumers Union, Consumer Federation of America, New America Foundation and Free Press."

"It is imperative that we learn the lessons of the wireline market and make the appropriate policy corrections in the launch of the most promising wireless broadband markets," an open-access filing by the Consumers Union states. "Wireless broadband has not been a useful 'third pipe' and will not be in the near future if this spectrum is auctioned to the very same vertically integrated telephone and cable incumbents that dominate the wireline market."

"Save Our Spectrum wants the spectrum to operate in an open manner allowing consumers to use any equipment, content, application or service without interference or discrimination from the network provider," Jones writes.

More here from Reuters ... more here from InfoWorld ... more here from RCR Wireless News ... and the press release is here.