Latest news from Ofcom on 0870 and 0871 number changes

Following the delayed implementation of changes to the 0870 and 0871 NGN ranges, originally due to be in place by 1st February 2008, Ofcom have now released their modified proposals.

The main reason for the delay was the technical issues surrounding the proposed mandatory pre-call pricing announcements. It was identified during the original consultation that such announcements could cause problems with machine-to-machine calling (such as fire and burglar alarms) and 'safety of life' issues on some emergency calls using 0870 numbers. The latest recommendations aim to address those concerns, and also announce new changes to the charging structure.

The most significant changes, together with proposed timescales, are outlined below:

Changes to 0870 numbers

• Revenue share for 0870 numbers is to be removed.
• There will be a pence per minute charge to receive call on 0870 numbers
• Pre-call announcements are not required.
• The pence per minute charge to call 0870 numbers will be set by the outbound and mobile service providers and 0870 owners will have no control over how much it costs to call their number.
• If service providers charge more than the national rate to call an 0870 service, they will need to clearly communicate that rate to their callers via price lists and advertising/ promotional materials.

Timescales

A 6 week consultation period will now take place, closing on 16th June 2008. Subject to the outcome of this consultation, Ofcom intends that these changes should take effect at the end of the 3rd month following the date of publication of the statement notifying the changes.

Assuming that these proposals are implemented without further consultation or delay, the above events indicate a timescale of early autumn 2008.

Changes to 0871 numbers

• 0871 numbers will be regulated by the premium rate regulator, PhonepayPlus.
• Network queuing will be allowed on 0871 (currently not on premium rate numbers).
• Prior permission to run services will not be necessary on 0871 (conferencing services and financial advice requires this on 09 numbers).
• The cost to call 0871 services will need to be clearly communicated, and must be present wherever the number appears.- including, but not limited to; written, print, visual and audio media

Timescales

As for the 0870 proposals, a 6 week consultation period will now take place. The closing date for responses is 16 June 2008. Following the consideration of responses Ofcom will publish a policy statement setting out their decision. They hope to publish their Policy Statement in August 2008. Ofcom then proposes to give stakeholders three months' notice to allow them to make final preparations for the extension of PRS regulation to 087 numbers. On this basis, PhonepayPlus would be expected to commence regulating the 087 Number services from November 2008.

A summary of the new proposals for 0870 numbers can be found on Ofcoms website at: http://www.ofcom.org.uk/consult/condocs/0870calls/summary

To review the proposals for 0871 on Ofcoms website, please visit: http://www.ofcom.org.uk/consult/condocs/087prs/summary/

source: Ofcom 02-05-2008