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Ofcom measures will mean ‘free’ numbers are free at last

Commenting on the new measures announced by Ofcom’s today, including the news that 0800 numbers will finally be free to call from a mobile, Marie-Louise Abretti, telecoms expert at Uswitch.com, says: “This is a welcome sign that Ofcom is taking consumer protection seriously. If a number is ‘free’ then it should be free wherever you call from – these measures should finally make this a reality.

“Ofcom has also taken great steps in increasing transparency, with the new pricing structure shedding some light on the cost of making non-geographic calls. Alongside a cap on the cost of calls to premium 09 numbers, these measures should give consumers greater, and much needed, protection from higher than expected bills.

“At last mobile and landline users alike will have peace of mind that, when picking up their phones, they can have access to the public services which may be essential to their lives – without fear of high charges or confusion.

“However, making consumers aware of these changes is also vital to their success and value to consumers, so the fact that Ofcom will be working with providers to communicate and explain these from next year is also to be applauded.

“The only thing that tempers this great news and slightly detracts from the strides Ofcom has made is the fact that these already long overdue changes won’t come in to effect until June 2015. This means consumers face another 18 months of finding a landline for free calls and being in the dark about calling non-geographic numbers.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Katherine Moss

Phone: 020 3021 5893

Email: katherine.moss@uswitch.com

Twitter: @uswitchPR

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