13/12/2013

Govt To Restrict Use Of Premium Numbers

The government has unveiled plans to end the use of premium helpline numbers used by some companies.

From June 2014, use of premium 084/087 numbers, which can cost customers between 36p and 82p a minute, will be restricted.

Announcing the move, Consumer Minister Jo Swinson said: "From next year, if something goes wrong with a cooker or commuters want a refund on their season ticket, they will now pay the same to phone a helpline as they do to call friends or family."

The new regulations will not extend to financial services companies, but it is understood that the Financial Conduct Authority is considering the introduction of similar restrictions.

(MH/JP)

Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

24 February 2005
NHS to be banned from using premium rate phone numbers
The Department of Health has announced plans to ban the NHS from using expensive phone numbers, which cost patients more to contact NHS services. Health Minister John Hutton announced that the NHS would be banned from using premium and national rates for healthcare services, such as GPs, from April.
16 August 2013
UK Tourism Hits Record Levels
The UK tourism sector has seen the highest record levels of spend and visitor numbers since 2008.
26 July 2006
Police numbers continue to rise
The number of police officers in England and Wales is continuing to rise, hitting a new high of 141,381, according to Home Office figures.
29 June 2005
Fines to rise for premium rate ‘scammers’
Rogue firms, which use premium rate numbers in phone and text scams, could face fines of £250,000 under new government proposals. The increase has been promoted by a surge in phone text promotions, prompting callers to dial premium rate numbers, as well as a rise in complaints from consumers unknowingly connecting to expensive Internet diallers.
09 December 2004
Ofcom reviews controls on premium rate calls
Telecoms regulator Ofcom has published its findings aimed at improving consumer protection following a review of the regulation of premium rate telephone services in the UK.