Ofcom is proposing to introduce new regulations aimed at resolving the
problems and delays that often plague users when switching from one broadband
service to another.
The telecommunications watchdog has received a large number of complaints
from broadband customers who have found it difficult to obtain a migration
authorisation code (MAC) from their current providers.
Some have been left without a broadband service whilst the transfer goes
through and others encountered problems getting a connection at a new address
when moving home.
The new regulations will make it mandatory for all telecommunications
providers to supply MACs to their customers on request; the current process is
part of a voluntary industry initiative, which makes it difficult for Ofcom to
take formal action against providers.
The deadline for responses to Ofcom's proposals is 5th October 2006, though
legislation is unlikely to be finalised before the mid 2007 at the earliest.
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