Oftel explores fresh avenues

NEWS Oftel has launched an inquiry to explore ways to bring more competition into the mobile phone market. The aim is to investigate new types of mobile phone service providers, known as Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs), that will offer services alongside the existing four network operators. These could include new or repackaged services based on existing ones. Oftel launched details of the framework in a consultation document and is now inviting consumers and industry members to comment. David Edmonds, director general of telecommunications, said Oftel wants to introduce competition but is anxious to clarify how MVNOs could affect existing networks. The document is available from Oftel's Web site at http://www.oftel.gov.uk