a method is illustrated for reducing the call setup time of high priority calls such as voice or high speed user generated data without unduly wasting rf frequency resources on non priority calls such as short message calls . this is accomplished by ascertaining the call priority at the base station controller level in a gsm system soon after call initiation and immediately changing the channel assignment for use by the remaining signalling type messages to a different operational speed where appropriate . the concept is further extended by supplying the call priority data to a called party &# 39 ; s bsc such that all signalling messages after initial contact can be at the operational speed appropriate to the priority of the call .