Ofcom has now announced that PhonePayPlus will be taking over the day to day regulation of 0871 numbers on 1 August 2009.

There will be a six month transition period, during which providers of 0871 services will be able to ensure they comply with the PhonepayPlus Code of Practice.

PhonepayPlus has announced an implementation plan which will ensure everyone is fully aware of the changes; any responsibilities they may have under PhonepayPlus’ Code of Practice; actions they may need to take in order to become compliant; and which parts of the Code apply to them. For consumers, the plan will provide greater clarity regarding the cost of calls placed to 0871 numbers, and their options should they have questions about the promotion or operation of 0871 services. This will ensure consumer confidence in the 0871 number range and so Elite Telecom are working closely with PhonePay Plus in relation to their 6 month implementation plan, which will include:

• Communication with 0871 Network Operators and Service Providers advising them of their responsibilities under the Code of Practice and actions they may need to take to become compliant;
• Industry Workshops to introduce 0871 Network Operators and Service Providers to the PhonepayPlus Code of Practice, its meaning and their responsibilities within it;
• Media and Marketing Campaigns to educate consumers and industry about what the new regulatory regime means for them and the benefits to all;
• Online information and registration tools as a resource for industry and consumers to help them understand the changes and what they mean;
• Publication of supporting materials including Helpnotes, FAQs, and a Statement of Expectation; and

Commenting on the change in regulation Paul Whiteing, Acting CEO of PhonepayPlus stated that the services offered via 0871 numbers are very useful and highly convenient and that in his experience from regulating other services, their involvement will be a boon to industry by boosting consumer confidence in these services.”
Commenting on the change in regulation Paul Whiteing, Acting CEO of PhonepayPlus stated that the services offered via 0871 numbers are very useful and highly convenient and that in his experience from regulating other services, their involvement will be a boon to industry by boosting consumer confidence in these services.”