e the national and regional standardisation bodies, keeping in mind the growth of telecommunications in developing countries. The topic need for the ITU to maintain its pre-eminent position in the field of was again raised at the 1989 Plenipotentiary and a new Telecom- world-wide standardisation for telecommunications. The two CCIs munications Development Bureau (BDT) was formed. The BDT were therefore given a mandate for global standards. now works in conjunction with the TCD in assisting the growth of telecommunication networks, particularly in developing countries; in encouraging investment by industry in these areas; and in orga- nising world and regional development conferences. 22.3.1.7 The CCIR The CCIR, develops standards in the radio field. Its activities mirror 22.3.1.10 The Plenipotentiary those of the CCITT in this area. The Plenipotentiary is held approximately every seven years. One was held in Nairobi in 1982, then in Nice in 1989 and the next is 22.3.1.8 The IFRB planned for Japan in 1994. One thousand delegates from 143 nations attended the 1989 Plenipotentiary over the period 23 May to 30 The International Frequency Registration Board (IFRB) is made up June. The Plenipotentiary Conference is the highest authority of the of five specialists elected by Plenipotentiary Conference. The IFRB Union, responsible for setting its policies and for revisions to its acts as the custodian of an international public trust, it main duty constitution. being to decide whether new frequencies assigned to radio users are in line with the convention and the Radio Regulations. It also provides advice on improving the utilisation of the radio spectrum 22.3.1.11 The WARC, the WATTC and the RARC and in the preparation and organisation of the Administrative Radio Conferences. The World Administrative Radio Conference (WARC), the World The IFRB has its own secretariat of about 100. The technical Administrative Telephone and Telegraph Conference (WATTC), secretariat of the IFRB has three departments: terrestrial services;