BT's response to Ofcom's consultation regarding proposals for Number and Tariff for a Single Non-Emergency Number


BT's response to Ofcom's consultation regarding proposals for Number and Tariff for a Single Non-Emergency Number

Issued December 22, 2005

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

ES1. BT welcomes the discussion around the numbering and tariffing for the proposed Single Non-Emergency Number.  BT notes that the underlying policy around such a service was decided elsewhere and is outside the scope of this consultation.  BT is confining its comments to telecommunications matters.

ES2. Whilst recognising the attraction of the number 101, BT does not think that this is the best option available to the Home Office, given its similarity to the free operator service number 100, and the negative perception that some people have or would be prompted to have regarding the association of the number with "Room 101".  BT believes that 199 may be the best option available, but suggests other possibilities.

ES3. As Ofcom acknowledges, it has limited powers available in relation to its ability to secure access to the number and to set a tariff for end users.  Until the service has been better defined, BT cannot comment on the appropriateness of the suggested tariff, the cost of the service, and the level of the contribution different prices might make against the total cost.

ES4. In addition to the number and tariff issues, BT highlights a range of other issues that need thinking through prior to launch, ranging from data issues, both network and personal, to interconnection and other technical matters.

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Comments should be addressed to Howard Erdunast, BT Group Regulatory Affairs Department by e-mail to howard.erdunast@bt.com.