15 February 2008
Broadband providers are still making it difficult for users to switch to a rival, new research from uSwitch suggests.
Rules introduced by watchdog Ofcom last year required the broadband firms to supply users with their MAC code within five days.
MAC codes enable customers to make a quick, seamless switch - and also allow users to put an automatic end to bills from their old supplier.
However, uSwitch has found that this new rule is flouted in 38% of cases - and, in 14% of cases, the code is not sent at all.
Before the rule change this figure was just 11% - suggesting that the situation might even have worsened since Ofcom's intervention.
Communications Expert at uSwitch Steve Weller commented: "It's disappointing that despite the mandatory Code of Practice being introduced, providers are still dragging their heels at the customer's expense.
"[The codes] not only enable customers to move to a new broadband service quickly and smoothly, but they ensure that bills from the old supplier stop - Ofcom needs to address this issue as a matter of urgency."
Around 260,000 consumers switch their broadband provider each month in the UK.