UK broadband users should be given freedom to break contracts with ISPs who do not deliver the connection speeds promised in their advertising, it has been mooted.

The Ofcom Consumer Panel recommended the change in response to findings that broadband connections are frequently much slower than those trumpeted ISPs' advertising campaigns in the UK.

In particular much controversy has surrounded the use of the phrase "up to" in advertising broadband speeds.

In response, the panel has called for a code of conduct to be implemented which would compel ISPs to make clear to potential customers the factors that influence broadband speeds and why they may receive a slower service than promised.

The code would also necessitate that ISPs told customers what speed they are actually receiving after installation.

Colette Bowe, who chaired the panel, said: "This code would establish agreed processes to give the customer the best information during and after the sales process, and to give them flexibility to move freely to different packages that reflect the actual speeds with which their ISPs are able to provide them."

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