8 June 2007
Telecommunications regulator Ofcom is to begin an investigation into connection and reconnection fees charged by broadband providers.
Carried out as part of a wider plane of research into the costs consumers are paying for high speed internet access, including the treatment of consumers who miss a payment, Ofcom is hoping that the research will give subscribers a clearer idea of which broadband provider really is the best value for money.
In a statement on the regulator's website, Ofcom declared: "The review will consider whether additional charges are sufficiently transparent, whether the charges or their levels are unfair and what action, if any, is necessary."
Ofcom's Chief Executive Ed Richards said that it was important for consumers to not be misled by the promise of a cheap, headline grabbing price, only for them to become subject to hidden charges later.
"As they make their choice of provider, they need confidence that any additional charges are fair, transparent and justified," he added.
The issue of different charges for customers who choose not to pay by Direct Debit will also be investigated, a move which will likely be praised by consumer rights' activists who have previously stated that the difference in costs puts elderly and vulnerable customers at an unfair disadvantage.
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