Oftel extends basic standards to UK callers

NEWS Oftel has confirmed the continuation of the universal service obligation following a consolation review with various industry bodies, despite the proliferation of competing telecoms companies. The universal service ensures that basic telephone services are available to all UK consumers at affordable prices wherever they are living. According to an Oftel spokesman, the decision was based on the current market conditions and consumer trends. The telecoms regulator concluded that BT and Kingston Communications, which holds a telecoms license for the environs of Hull, will continue to have an obligation to provide the following on reasonable demand: a basic connection to the fixed network, special tariff packages to help those people with special social needs and on low incomes and proportionate and non-discriminatory disconnection procedures which are made publicly available. The regulatory body will continue to keep under review possible extension of the universal service obligation to include mobile and broadband services.