Countdown to sign up to ISP voluntary code

Ofcom has warned ISPs that they have only a few weeks to sign up to a voluntary code on the promotion of broadband speeds or face mandatory regulation. After voluntary systems to provide consumers with accurate information on received broadband speeds, Ofcom's chief executive recently told a parliamentary select committee: "This is a near-term issue that needs to be dealt with now and we would like to be able to get the industry to sign up with the next few weeks," he continued: "But I am not sure we can and if the providers do not agree we will have to move to a mandatory code, which will take much longer when we want to move quickly." So far, the only ISP to publicly back the scheme is BT - UK's largest broadband provider, commenting: "We believe the most important thing is transparency when a customer orders a broadband service. BT Retail always tells the customer what speed of service they will receive before they place the order and we believe that other companies should do the same." Speaking on the new developments, member of the business and enterprise committee and MP Tony Wright aired his views: "Not long ago, constituents were concerned they couldn't get broadband, now discussion has turned to the speed of the connection and there is growing dissatisfaction." Once the new voluntary code comes into force, ISPs will be required to be realistic about the speeds their customers will receive, taking into account factors such as distance from the exchange. Source: The Independent