14 March 2006
The telecoms industry regulator Ofcom has completed a review of its rules ensuring that everyone in the UK can take advantage of basic telecommunications services at an affordable price.
Its Universal Service Obligations (USO) require Ofcom and Kingston Communications to offer certain services to all UK residents.
The regulator updates these requirements in order that the obligations keep pace with consumer demands and technology, and also to ensure that USO benefits reach those who really need them.
BT and Kingston are required to install a new line at a standard price of £99.99 regardless of location. This is designed to protect people who live in remote locations from paying large installation costs.
Ofcom said that BT and Kingston may only charge more than this if the actual cost of installation exceeds £3,400. Where this is the case, customers will be required to pay the amount exceeding the £3,400 threshold.
A Stakeholder Advisory Panel will also be set up to ensure that the two companies were delivering required services, such as text relay for the hard of hearing and deaf, to people with disabilities.
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