O87O News - The History Behind Ofcom's Review of UK Numbering

The History Behind Ofcom's Review of UK Numbering

The use of Non Geographic Numbering Services (NGNS) has grown considerably since they were first introduced back in the early 90's. The increasing use of these services has inevitably resulted in consumer complaints about pricing clarity and general resentment regarding the higher cost of non-geographic numbers compared with geographic alternatives.

Of greatest concern is the lack of price transparency surrounding 0870. Calls to these numbers are generally advertised as 'national rate' but in fact exceed the cost of a standard geographic national call. For example, a caller could pay 7.90 ppm (pence per minute) for a call to a 0870 number, but pay just 2.50 ppm for a standard national call to a geographic number.

Of course, when 0870 numbers were first introduced their pricing structure was inline with the cost of standard national calls. Over the years consumer rates for national calls have become more competitive, whilst 0870 pricing remained the same, hence the complaints regarding pricing clarity.

The result of consumer complaints was Ofcom's review of UK numbering, which has been carried out over the past 18 months. The proposed changes are due to take effect Spring 2009, with an exact date still to be confirmed. The changes will affect all users of 0870 numbering.

For honest advice please contact us on 08000 91 8000, sales@syntec.co.uk or request a call back.

For further information please visit the Ofcom website:

http://www.ofcom.org.uk/media/news/2006/04/nr_20060419

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