Numbering Conventions
for the United Kingdom
Issue 4, 1 March 2002
Issued by the Director General of Telecommunications
Content
Introduction
General Conventions
1: Rights, responsibilities and the review procedure
2: Applying for numbers or codes
3: Reserving numbers or codes
4: Considering applications
5: Conditions placed on allocations
6: Re-allocating and withdrawing numbers or codes
7: Requirement to notify others
8: Specified Numbering Scheme records
Conventions for numbers and codes for the public switched telephony
network
A1: Structure of the Scheme
A2: Standards and standard presentation
A3: Geographic numbering ranges (01,02 & 03)
A4: Corporate numbering (05)
A5: 'Find-me-anywhere' services (07)
A6: Special services (08)
A7: Premium Rate Services (090/ 091)
A8: Broadband services (092+)
A9: Access Codes and Short Codes
Conventions for other codes and numbers
B1: Inbound and Internal Routing Codes
B2: Data Network Numbers and Codes
B3: Telex numbering
Glossary
Introduction
1 The Numbering Conventions for the United Kingdom (the 'Conventions')
are a set of principles and rules relating to the use and management
of numbers from the Specified Numbering Scheme (the 'Scheme'). The
Conventions are not intended to be used as a guide for consumers
to any aspect of numbering policy or management.
2 The Conventions also govern the specification and application
of the Scheme and licensees' Numbering Plans. It is a breach of
the Numbering Arrangements Condition, contained in a licence granted
to an operator under Section 7 of the Telecommunications Act 1984,
for an operator to not have a Numbering Plan, or to have a Numbering
Plan that does not accord with these Conventions. Oftel uses the
procedures set out in the Telecommunications Act 1984 to enforce
any breach of a licence condition.
3 The Conventions are revised from time to time by the Director
General of Telecommunications (the 'Director') after consultation
with relevant licensees and interested parties. The first and second
issues of the Conventions were published in June 1994 and April
1997, respectively. This third issue takes into account:
· The provisions of the Numbering Arrangements Condition.
· Representations received by the Office of Telecommunications
('Oftel) on the draft revised Conventions published in the Oftel
consultation documents 'Revising the Numbering Conventions', of
February 2001, 'Access Codes: options for the future', of March
2001, and 'Restoring Trust in Personal Numbering', of May 2001.
· Oftel's experience of managing the Scheme since 1994,
including recent developments affecting numbering issues.
4 Comments or queries regarding the Conventions should be directed
to:
The Numbering Unit
Oftel
50 Ludgate Hill
London EC4M 7JJ
E-mail: numbers@oftel.gov.uk
5 Numbering information appears on Oftel's website: www.oftel.gov.uk/ind_info/index.htm.
General Conventions
1.Rights, responsibilities and the review procedure
Oftel's guiding principles
1.1 The Office of Telecommunications (Oftel) is responsible for
managing the Scheme and issuing the Conventions. In addition, Oftel
is responsible for developing numbering strategy in the national
interest and developing the Scheme. Numbers and codes are a national
resource and the following guiding principles will be taken into
account by Oftel when allocating, reserving or managing numbers:
a) Oftel will manage the Scheme to ensure that there are sufficient
numbers available to meet all reasonable demands that end users,
operators and service providers might have.
b) The Scheme will, where applicable, be compatible with relevant
European and international agreements, standards and recommendations.
c) The Scheme will, wherever possible, seek to ensure that numbers
of different types give a broad indication of service and/or tariff.
d) Oftel will ensure that costs or inconvenience to consumers,
operators and service providers are objectively justified, and
kept to the minimum consistent with meeting demands for numbers
and sound management of the Scheme.
e) Oftel will allocate or reserve numbers in a fair and equitable
manner, normally to the first operator that requests the block
or code (ie on a 'first come first served' basis). Oftel will
only allocate or reserve numbering capacity to operators who meet
the eligibility criteria set out in Convention 2.
f) Oftel will take into account the need to anticipate growth
and innovative services in demand for telecommunications services
and, when allocating numbers, the need to conserve numbering capacity
in ranges identified as having a number shortage (eg, Conservation
Areas, a list of which is placed on the Oftel website). In particular,
the utilisation of previous numbering allocations, including any
numbers made available for porting, will be taken into account
when considering new requests for number allocations.
Operators' responsibilities
1.2 Operators who have received allocations of numbers or codes
shall act in accordance with the following principles:
a) Operators shall adopt a Numbering Plan, for such numbers or
codes as are allocated to it, in accordance with the Conventions
b) Operators shall be efficient in their use of numbers
c) Operators shall not brand numbers, nor associate a number range
with a given operator.
Reviews of the Conventions and the Scheme
1.3 Oftel may from time to time review the Conventions and/or the
Scheme upon its own initiative, or upon a request in writing by
any operator, service provider, user or other interested party.
1.4 The Director may from time to time amend or withdraw in full
or in part the Scheme and/or a Convention already published, or
publish additional Conventions. This would take place only after
consulting with relevant licensees, interested parties who are members
of the Telecommunications Numbering and Addressing Body (TNAB) and,
if the Director considers it appropriate, end users.
1.5 The normal consultation period will be three months. However,
in exceptional circumstances, a shorter consultation period of not
less than 28 calendar days may be appropriate.
1.6 Licensed operators will not be required to comply with any
such amendment or withdrawal, unless they have been given a reasonable
period of notice, such notice not being less than three months.
Structure of the Conventions
1.7 These Conventions are structured in two parts. The first part
(Conventions 1 to 8) sets out the general rules or principles concerning
the procedures for applications, reservations, withdrawals and other
operations of the Scheme from both Oftel and recipients' points
of view. The second part (Conventions A1 to A9 and Conventions B1
to B10) sets out specific rules relating to numbers or codes within
the public switched network or other parts of the Scheme.
1.8 This structure is for presentational purposes only and shall
not affect the status of any of the individual Conventions, whether
they are placed in the first or second part of these Conventions.
2. Applying for numbers or codes
Criteria for the eligibility of applicants for number allocations
and reservations
2.1 All operators providing publicly available telecommunications
services and running a telecommunication system under a licence
granted under Section 7 of the Telecommunications Act 1984, whether
that is an individual or a class licence, containing Numbering Arrangements
Condition, are eligible to apply for allocations and reservations
of numbering capacity.
2.2 Other persons who may require an allocation of numbering capacity,
but who are not eligible under Convention 2.1 above, should seek
a sub-allocation from an eligible operator (as defined in Convention
2.1 above). Sub-allocations should be fairly and reasonably available
from such operators. However, Oftel is prepared, at its discretion,
to consider reserving or allocating numbers or codes to systemless
service providers in demonstrably exceptional circumstances (eg,
where a systemless service provider is in the process of setting
up a system).
Information to be supplied by an applicant for a numbering allocation
and/ or reservation
2.3 When applying for an allocation or reservation of numbering
capacity, the applicant shall provide the following information
to Oftel's Numbering Unit on an appropriate application form (available
from Oftel's Numbering Unit):
a) Name and contact details of the applicant.
b) Where a person submits an application form on behalf of the
applicant, a signed and dated letter of authorisation shall accompany
it from that applicant.
c) Details of the Telecommunications Act licence under which
the applicant intends to operate the numbering capacity sought
and of the system being operated.
d) Details of any existing ranges held that are relevant to that
application.
e) Details of the operator's interconnection and number portability
arrangements.
f) A preferred numbering code and/or block and, where appropriate,
second and third preferences should be indicated.
g) Where relevant, details of the type of telecommunications
service intended on the range and the proposed tariff rate of
the service.
h) Details of the applicant's utilisation of existing number
allocations. For example:
- Numbers in service allocated to end users;
- Capacity not in use but contracted for (geographic numbering
only);
- Numbers set aside for geographic growth or customer orders;
and
- A forecast of expected utilisation over a specified period.
i) Any other information that the applicant considers necessary
or appropriate to justify the application.
2.4 In addition, applicants shall provide to Oftel any other information,
judged by Oftel to be relevant to the application, and the supply
of which does not place an undue burden on the applicant. This may
include a brief description of the applicant's technical and operational
system configuration.
Timing of applications
2.5 Applications for numbering allocations should not, in general,
be made more than six months prior to the planned in-service date.
3. Reserving numbers or codes
Making reservations
3.1 In addition to allocating numbering capacity, Oftel may, at
its discretion, agree to reserve it. Reservations are appropriate
where:
a) an applicant does not want to be identified;
b) the reason for the application should not be divulged prior
to an application for the allocation; or
c) a customer order has not been finalised.
3.2 A reservation may be made:
a) in anticipation of an application being made for numbering
capacity in accordance with a three year rolling forecast provided
by licensees entitled to apply for an allocation; or
b) against a specific request submitted by any person eligible
to receive allocations (for example, for the expansion or growth
of existing services or for the introduction of new services).
3.3 An application for a reservation shall be made to Oftel's Numbering
Unit in accordance with Convention 2. Applications for reservations
will be treated in confidence, unless the applicant requests otherwise.
Limitations
3.4 Wherever possible, Oftel will endeavour to convert a reservation
into an allocation upon request. However, it should be noted that
a reservation does not automatically entitle an applicant to activate
the capacity. Nor, where numbering capacity is reserved, is there
any guarantee that a corresponding allocation will subsequently
be made. Reservations will be time-limited and the limit for reservations
will normally be three months. Reservations may be renewable on
request to Oftel.
Cancellation
3.5 Once a reservation has been made, that numbering capacity will
be unavailable for allocation, except for the purpose and to the
organisation for which the reservation was made. However, a reservation
will automatically be cancelled if:
a) the time limit has expired;
b) the applicant withdraws the reservation; or
c) Oftel and the applicant agree a substitute reservation or
allocation.
Competing requests
3.6 Where available number ranges are limited, and several operators
have requested the same number block, Oftel may reserve the block
for more than one operator, but will allocate it to the first operator
who provides Oftel with firm evidence of a customer order.
4. Considering applications
4.1 When making number allocations or reservations within the Scheme,
Oftel will take into account:
a) the guiding principles set out in Convention 1.1;
b) the provisions of the Numbering Arrangements Condition and,
where appropriate, any other relevant licence conditions;
c) the views of the applicant and other interested parties (through
consultation, where appropriate); and
d) any other matters that Oftel deems relevant (eg, any requirement
to open a new range or make changes to the Scheme in order to
allocate the required numbers or codes).
New number ranges or changes to the Scheme
4.2 Before opening any new ranges, or significant parts of ranges,
Oftel will publish a notification in the Numbering Bulletin. Oftel
will give at least 28 calendar days' notice of the opening of any
new ranges or significant parts of ranges. Oftel will also specify
a date for the initial receipt of applications for those ranges
and, prior to that date, no applications will be accepted.
4.3 Oftel will notify the ITU Telecommunications Standardisation
Sector ('ITU-T') of changes to the Scheme and ensure that the correct
notification is given in the ITU-T Operational Bulletin. Where Oftel
considers it appropriate, it will also notify other overseas administrations,
such as those that do not subscribe to the ITU-T Operational Bulletin.
Number portability
4.4 Oftel may take into account how the applicant intends to provide
portability for relevant numbers when considering applications.
Timescale for handling applications for numbering capacity
4.5 Oftel will use all reasonable endeavours to make an allocation
or reservation in accordance with the Conventions, in response to
applications for numbering capacity, within a period of twenty-eight
calendar days following receipt of an application that contains
all of the information required by Convention 2.
4.6 The period referred to in Convention 4.5 may be exceeded where:
a) additional information is required from the applicant;
b) a period of consultation is necessary, as initiated by Oftel;
c) there are significant issues relating to the application that
cannot be reasonably handled within that period;
d) evidence is required that an applicant is running a system
licensed under Section 7 of the Telecommunications Act 1984; or
e) Oftel considers that an alternative period of time is justified.
4.7 Where Oftel considers that an exception to the normal period
is required, then it will inform the applicant in writing of its
reasons and of the revised period. Generally, this period will not
exceed ninety calendar days from receipt of an application that
contains all of the information required by Convention 2.
Refusal of applications for numbering capacity
4.8 Oftel may refuse an application for an allocation or reservation
of numbering capacity. Alternatively, Oftel may not grant the application
in full, or may attach specific conditions to the allocation which
are consistent with the Conventions and relate to the use and management
of the numbering capacity allocated. Such specific conditions will
be set out in the letter that accompanies the Allocation Certificate.
4.9 In the event of a refusal, whether in part or in full, or where
specific conditions are attached, Oftel will inform the applicant,
in writing, of its reasons.
4.10 Oftel may, following consultation with the applicant, make
an alternative allocation that has the potential to satisfy the
applicant's requirements without conflicting with the criteria that
caused the original application to be refused.
4.11 Where Oftel refuses an application, either in part or in full,
or attaches specific conditions to the allocation, the applicant
may write to the Director disputing the reasons given by Oftel for
its decision or giving further information for consideration regarding
the application. The Director will then consider the request and
respond to the applicant within 28 calendar days.
5. Conditions placed on allocations
General conditions
5.1 In addition to any specific conditions that may apply (see
Convention 4.8), the following general conditions, relating to the
use and management of numbering capacity, apply to all allocations
made by Oftel:
a) the allocation shall be used for the purpose specified in
the application (eg, including any classification by type or tariff
as set out in the Scheme);
b) the person originally allocated numbers shall be responsible
for them. This does not prevent that recipient sub-allocating
numbers, provided that the sub-allocation is still for the use
specified in the original application and in accordance with the
Conventions;
c) the holder of the allocation shall maintain a record of the
percentage of numbers in use;
d) the holder of the allocation shall maintain a record of numbers
that have been ported to another operator ('ported numbers');
e) holders of numbering capacity shall not, unless the Director
consents otherwise, charge any person for a number allocated to
him (other than a coveted number allocated to a person who is
not a public telecommunications operator at the request of such
a person); and
f) an operator shall not use numbers from the Scheme other than
those allocated by Oftel.
Conditional allocations - codes
5.2 Oftel may allocate a code to an operator on the condition that
it is used exclusively for traffic to and from a specified third
party. In addition, it may be allocated on the condition that the
code shall be capable of being transferred to that third party if,
in due course, that third party becomes eligible to receive allocations
of codes in its own right by satisfying the eligibility criteria
in Convention 2.1 above.
Changes to allocations
5.3 Those who have been allocated numbering capacity are required
to apply to Oftel to make any changes:
a) to the ownership of the block or code;
b) to the purpose or use of the numbering allocation; or
c) which relate to conditions of use placed on the allocation.
The audit process
5.4 Each holder of an allocation shall submit to Oftel an 'Annual
Numbering Return'. The Annual Numbering Return shall refer to information
at the calendar year end and shall be submitted to Oftel as requested,
but usually within one month of the end of that year.
5.5 The following information shall be provided in the Annual Numbering
Return for each allocation:
a) the current use of the allocation;
b) numbers in service allocated to end users;
c) details of numbers set aside for planned growth, customer
orders or other usage, with explanations;
d) blocks of numbers allocated to any person for purposes other
than end use; and
e) the proportion of numbers ported, at the request of end users,
to another operator, including those ported before allocation.
5.6 Each Annual Numbering Return shall also provide:
a) a three year forecast of demand within significant ranges,
as specified by Oftel;
b) the justification for continuing reservation by the operator
of numbering capacity; and
c) any other information requested by Oftel.
5.7 This information shall be supplied in a format specified by
Oftel. Oftel will not require information where the collection or
analysis of the information would place an undue burden on the organisation
submitting the Annual Numbering Return.
Annual numbering report
5.8 Oftel will prepare an annual numbering report on the organisation
and use of the Scheme for publication each year, usually in April.
6. Re-allocating and withdrawing numbers or codes
Reallocation
6.1 If a substantial proportion of numbers from an allocation has
been transferred (eg, sub-allocated or ported) to another operator,
Oftel may, with the agreement of the operators concerned, re-allocate
the number block to the operator who has most users in the block.
Oftel will re-allocate number blocks or codes only when it has received
the written consent of both the existing allocatee and the intended
new allocatee.
Withdrawal
6.2 Oftel will withdraw capacity that it has allocated, or part
of such capacity, if its continued use or allocation is not in compliance
with:
a) the Conventions;
b) the Scheme; or
c) any specific conditions of the allocation.
6.3 Withdrawal of an in-service numbering range, which has been
allocated by Oftel, can be made only after Oftel has consulted with
interested parties for a period of not less than twenty-eight calendar
days. It will be subject to a period of notice of not less than
three months following that consultation.
6.4 If an allocation or part of an allocation is not brought into
service within six months, it may be withdrawn, after consultation
with such interested parties and for such period as specified in
Convention 6.3 above. Such withdrawal will be subject to a period
of notice of not less than three months following that consultation.
7. Requirement to notify others
7.1 When activating a number allocation, it is the responsibility
of the holder of the allocation to negotiate with, and to notify,
relevant United Kingdom operators and, where appropriate, overseas
authorities. This will be done within a timescale agreed between
the operators and/or organisations.
7.2 Those who have been allocated numbering capacity are required
to advise Oftel, on an ongoing basis, of the contact in their organisations
to whom notifications of the dates for activation of the allocated
codes and number blocks should be sent.
7.3 Oftel will maintain a list of such contacts and will make it
available on request to all organisations listed on it, and others
who, in Oftel's opinion, have need of that information.
8. Specified numbering scheme records
8.1 Oftel will maintain comprehensive records of the status of
all number ranges, codes and blocks of numbers comprising the Scheme.
The full Scheme will be set out in a list (the Specified Numbering
Scheme List or 'SNS List') kept by Oftel and made available on Oftel's
website. Oftel will endeavour to update the SNS List on Oftel's
website on a weekly basis.
8.2 Where available and not commercially sensitive, details of
the operator's plans for reserved numbering will be included on
the SNS List on Oftel's website. However, those requiring further
details of reservations are advised to contact the person for whom
the code or block of numbers has been reserved.
Publication of changes
8.3 In addition to updating the Scheme at the earliest opportunity,
Oftel will publish confirmations of allocations, reservations or
withdrawals, setting out the number range(s) being allocated, reserved
or withdrawn, the person to whom the allocation has been made or
from whom it has been withdrawn, the action date, and the case number.
Status indicators
8.4 Oftel will structure the Scheme so that all numbers or codes
will fall into one of two categories: namely, either designated
or not designated. Designated numbers or codes are those set aside
within the scheme for particular usage: eg, geographic, 'Find-me-anywhere',
premium rate, etc, and also, within geographic ranges, what area
the code is designated for. Designation is no indication as to the
availability or otherwise of a number or code. Those parts of the
Scheme that are not designated, have not been set aside for a use
specified in Convention A1, and are therefore not available for
allocation or reservation.
8.5 Codes or numbers that have been designated will, unless this
is with reference to a Type A or a Type C Access Code (see Convention
A9), have one of the following, more specific, status indicators
(listed in alphabetical order) within the Scheme:
'Allocated' - indicates codes or numbers that have been allocated
to a person whose name will be listed alongside. While the majority
of codes and number blocks shown as 'Allocated' may also be in public
service, these records will not contain information about in-service
dates. In addition, allocations will not appear with full details
on the SNS List while an applicant maintains a requirement to protect
commercially sensitive information prior to the opening of service.
'Allocated for Migration Only' - indicates that the code or block
has been allocated to a listed person for the express purpose of
managing a migration from one range to another. This may be a temporary
allocation and, after a suitable, specified time, and the meeting
of allocation criteria, Oftel may determine that the block could
be used for new business and its status changed accordingly.
'Free' - indicates that this code or block is available for allocation
or reservation. Applicants should note that a number block shown
as 'Free' could have already been requested by another operator
between the time of the last update of the list and the time of
applying for the number block.
'Free for X' - indicates numbering ranges which are free only for
specific purposes, eg, 'Free for National Dialling Only', which
is used to show where numbers are available only for use where a
geographic code will always be added (see Convention A3.15 for further
details), and 'Free for New 100,000 Block Only' which indicates
where number ranges are not normally available for allocation or
reservation while numbers are still 'Free' in previously opened
ranges within that geographic code area (see Convention A3.12 for
further details).
'Protected' - indicates where a number block is protected until
further notice or, where a date is shown, until that date. Numbers
are protected, eg, for future planning purposes or to avoid temporary
or permanent dialling problems.
'Reserved' - indicates a provisional allocation, subject to confirmation
by the applicant and/or Oftel. The applicant's name will not normally
appear alongside the reservation to ensure commercial confidentiality.
Conventions for numbers and codes for the public
switched telephony network
A1. structure of the Scheme
A1.1 The National Significant Number (NSN) will usually be ten
digits long (excluding the national prefix code '0'), notated by
the sequence 'SABCDEFGHI'. It should be noted, however, that there
are some seven-digit and nine-digit NSNs within the United Kingdom's
Scheme. The lengths of all number ranges are clearly marked on the
SNS List that is published on Oftel's website.
A1.2 The structure of the Scheme is as follows (with the national
prefix digit ('0') and initial Scheme ('S') digit identifying the
range):
00 The international prefix code, used to access international
dialling.
01 The Geographic Numbering Range with five, six or seven digit
local numbers (see Convention A3).
02 The Geographic Numbering Range with eight digit local numbers
(see Convention A3).
03 Future Geographic Numbering Range (see Convention A3).
04 Future use.
05 Corporate Numbering (see Convention A4).
06 Future use.
07 'Find-me-anywhere' Range for Personal, Mobile and Paging services
(see Convention A5).
08 Special Services (see Convention A6).
09 Premium Rate Numbering and Broadband Services (see Conventions
A7 and A8).
A1.3 Since the numbering capacity associated with a range may exceed
the potential demand for the usage identified in Convention A1.2
above, allocations will be made from particular A digits, leaving
other values of A digit free for future allocation to the given
usage or for alternative designation. Similarly, capacity will be
conserved by care in the allocation of B, C and D digits to avoid
large blocks of numbers being sterilised.
A2. Standards and standard presentation
A2.1 So far as it is practicable, the Scheme will conform to the
relevant international standards. In particular, attention is drawn
to the following ITU-T Recommendations, or their functional successors:
'E.123' - Standard notation for national and international telephone
numbers (see Convention A2.3 to A2.9 below).
'E.161' - Arrangements of figures, letters and symbols on telephones
and other devices that can be used for gaining access to a telephone
network.
'E.164' - The international public telecommunications numbering
plan.
'E.166' - Numbering plan for inter-working the E.164 and X.121
number plans.
'X.121' - International numbering plan for public data networks.
A2.2 ITU-T Recommendations E.169.2, E.169.3, E.175, E.191 and E.195
describe the role of the ITU-T in introducing universal services.
The allocation of numbers for such services (eg, International Freephone
00800) is the responsibility of the ITU-T.
Country code
A2.3 The country code allocated by the ITU-T to the United Kingdom
is 44. This code follows the international dialling prefix on calls
made from outside the United Kingdom, and should be followed by
the NSN of the destination within the United Kingdom, excluding
the national dialling prefix, '0'. The country code '44' is also
used by the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man.
Maximum number of digits
A2.4 Particular attention is drawn to ITU-T Recommendation E.164
which states that the maximum number of digits that a national system
is expected to handle on an outgoing international call is fifteen
(15) (excluding the international dialling prefix).
Alphanumeric arrangements
A2.5 The Scheme will use the decimal character set 0-9 for all
number allocations. Letters and other non-decimal characters will
not form any part of the United Kingdom's NSN. The use of alphanumeric
keypads is recommended for telecommunication terminals to facilitate
a harmonised means of transfer of information within those countries
who, like the United Kingdom, are members of the European Conference
of Posts and Telecommunications ('CEPT'). In the event that an alphanumeric
arrangement is used which exceeds the number length of the range
dialled, this confers no right to the longer sequence, nor any guarantee
that it will work.
A2.6 The use of the following set of keypad arrangement is strongly
recommended, in line with ITU-T Recommendation E.161 Option A:
1 No letters
2 ABC
3 DEF
4 GHI
5 JKL
6 MNO
7 PQRS
8 TUV
9 WXYZ
0 No letters
Prefix '0'
A2.7 The prefix '0' will be used for all calls within the United
Kingdom other than for some locally dialled calls and short access
codes, including 999. For calls within the United Kingdom, the digits
of a NSN will follow this prefix. Operators are expected to engineer
their systems to accept nationally dialled calls that could otherwise
have been made using local dialling. On networks where only full
national dialling is provided, only the following initial digits
will be used for any public service (except where Oftel has designated
other digits):
0 (national prefix);
1 (Access codes - see Convention A11); and
999
Prefix '00'
A2.8 The international prefix '00' is used for international dialling
from the United Kingdom. The digits of the country code and the
NSN will follow this prefix. This also applies to ISDN data calls.
Consistency of format
A2.9 Numbers can be presented in whatever way operators or users
wish, so long as there is no intention to deceive or confuse. However,
considerable benefit can be obtained from consistent forms of number
presentation. The recommended formats for ten-digit NSNs under the
Scheme are as follows (In these examples of best practice, the brackets
are used to indicate that the digits within are not required for
local dialling):
Geographic numbering ranges:
(01AB) CDE FGHI - 01 range with seven-digit local dialling.
(01ABC) DEFGHI - 01 range with six-digit local dialling.
(01ABCD) EFGHI - 01 range with five-digit local dialling.
(02A) BCDE FGHI - 02 range with eight-digit local dialling.
International format:
+44 1AB CDE FGHI
+44 1ABC DEFGHI
+44 1ABCD EFGHI
+44 2A BCDE FGHI
Non geographic numbering ranges:
A2.10 Benefit can also be obtained from consistent forms of non-geographic
number presentation (ie where the 'S' Digit is a 5, 7, 8 or 9).
The recommended formats for these ten-digit NSNs are as follows:
0SAB CDEFGHI
0SABC DEFGHI
A3: Geographic Numbering Ranges (01, 02 and 03)
A3.1 In the Scheme, the 01, 02 and 03 ranges have been designated
as the Geographic Numbering Ranges ('GNR'), although the 03 range
is currently protected for future use. In particular, the 02 range
has been assigned for use to overcome the exhaustion of existing
01 area codes. The 02 codes will be allocated in the form 02A followed
by B, BC or BCD digits to replace directly the existing 01 code.
The B, BC or BCD digits will be added to the existing local number
to form a new eight-digit local number. In this way, the integrity
of the existing geographic structure will be maintained, while at
the same time setting out the basis for its future evolution.
A3.2 Oftel will give at least two years' notice of any code change.
A3.3 In deciding how future 02 or 03 codes should be used, Oftel
will take into account the following factors:
a) areas likely to be affected by number shortages;
b) anticipated growth in demand for numbers;
c) demographic and business trends;
d) the existence of communities of interest;
e) the need for efficient utilisation of numbering resources;
and/or
f) any representations received on behalf of local communities.
A3.4 To ease the migration by end users to new codes and numbers,
operators shall ensure that the following measures are in place
wherever possible:
a) there must be adequate notification and publicity to end users
prior to a change;
b) there must be a period of parallel running when numbers to
the old and new codes are available; and
c) there is a changed number announcement after the completion
of the change.
A3.5 An indication of the areas served by each of the codes in
the GNR is given in the Scheme. Oftel will advise on the procedure
for licensed operators on how to obtain a map of the United Kingdom
showing the areas and codes used. Oftel will ensure that more precise
details of the boundaries can be obtained, when necessary.
A3.6 Calls anywhere within the GNR may be made using full national
dialling, including the national prefix (0). Additionally, operators
will allow callers having the same National Destination Code as
the called party to use only the Subscriber Number.
A3.7 The boundaries of the areas covered by the GNR will be material
to the operators offering services in or around those areas. Oftel
may make changes to the boundaries following consultation with relevant
interested parties.
Conservation measures
A3.8 Geographic numbers will normally be allocated to applicants
in blocks of 10,000 with DE digits (see Convention A2.9) in the
appropriate area code range. However, in those areas where conservation
measures have been announced, numbers may be allocated in blocks
of 1,000. Accordingly, conservation measures will not only enable
Oftel to delay implementing code changes, but may remove the need
for some code changes altogether.
A3.9 Oftel will publish and revise as appropriate a list of Conservation
Areas. The assessment of what constitutes a Conservation Area takes
into account confidential audit returns, actual allocations over
recent years, and Oftel's knowledge of local factors.
A3.10 Conservation Areas will be separated into two types:
a) Conservation Areas where numbers will be allocated in units
of 1,000 ('Type A Conservation areas'); and
b) Conservation Areas where numbers will be allocated in units
of 10,000 ('Type B Conservation Areas').
A3.11 Type A Conservation Areas are those which Oftel believes
are within two years of having less than ten spare 10,000 number
blocks available. In addition to allocating new blocks in those
areas in units of 1,000 numbers, Oftel may, following at least six
months written notice to operators, withdraw such 10,000 number
blocks as have been previously allocated to them, and reissue to
them an appropriate number of 1,000 number blocks from that 10,000
number block. An appropriate number in this context will be sufficient
to cover existing usage and reasonable future utilisation.
A3.12 Allocations in Type B Conservation Areas shall be conditional
upon planned usage of numbers in units of 1,000 at a time, and,
should the area become a Type A Conservation Area, Oftel may withdraw
and reissue numbers in accordance with Convention A3.11.
A3.13 Additionally, in order to conserve numbers, Oftel will not
normally open a new 100,000 range while numbers are still free in
previously opened ranges within that code area.
A3.14 Operators licensed to offer service in more than one local
geographic code area must seek an allocation of number blocks for
each of the relevant codes in those areas in which they wish to
provide service in accordance with the GNR.
A3.15 Oftel will require evidence that applications for Subscriber
Number capacity in the range 2-9 are required for local dialling.
National dialling only
A3.16 Certain GNRs are shown as 'Free for National Dialling Only',
where full national dialling is required. These numbers cannot be
used for locally diallable Subscriber Numbers.
A3.17 However, to promote greater use of the numbering capacity,
Oftel will encourage operators to make maximum use of these ranges
for services in circumstances where local dialling is not required.
Such services include, but are not limited to, number translation,
outgoing-only traffic, and voice mailboxes. Where an outgoing-only
number is used a presentation number must appear for caller-line
identification purposes. In the event of a code change to eight-digit
numbering, these ranges would become usable and Oftel would normally
offer replacement ranges from the new pool of 'National Dialling
Only' blocks. Operators will be required to migrate to these new
ranges by the end of parallel running.
A4. Corporate Numbering (05)
A4.1 The 05 range has been designated for Corporate Numbering or
Freephone 0500. Corporate number services will be provided from
the Scheme.
A5. 'Find-me-anywhere' services (07)
A5.1 The 07 range has been designated for 'Find-me-anywhere' services.
These are services that enable end users to be contacted, whatever
their location, where the call charge is not distance dependent.
Mobile, Personal Numbering and paging services shall only use the
respective 07 range designated below:
070 Personal Numbering Services.
076 Paging Services.
077 Mobile Services.
078 Mobile Services.
079 Mobile Services.
Personal numbering
A5.2 Oftel may allocate 070 numbers in 10,000 or 100,000 number
blocks at the applicant's request and where it considers this to
be appropriate, taking into account:
a) demand forecasts;
b) previous allocations and reservations by the applicant and
others offering similar services; and
c) the need to conserve capacity.
A5.3 In particular, the only services allowed to be used for the
070 range shall be Personal Numbering Services, which enable end
users to be called using a single telephone number and to receive
those calls at virtually any telephone number, including mobile
numbers. The range of 070 numbers is suitable for end users who
habitually move location.
A5.4 For the avoidance of any doubt, the 070 range shall not be
used for Premium Rate Services.
A5.5 Any person to whom Oftel has allocated 070 numbers (the "original
070 allocatee") shall not share with end users any revenue
obtained from providing a Personal Numbering Service. Where the
original 070 allocatee sub-allocates 070 numbers to persons other
than end users, such as to a provider of Personal Numbering Services
or another operator, that original 070 allocatee shall, prior to
making such a sub-allocation (and without prejudice to the generality
of his obligations under Convention 5.1), ensure that such persons
undertake to procure that revenue obtained from providing a Personal
Numbering Service is not shared with end users.
Paging and mobile services
A5.6 Oftel will allocate paging and mobile service numbers in blocks
of 100,000.
A6. Special Services (08)
A6.1 The 08 range has been designated exclusively for Special Services.
These are services paid for through the telephone bill of a subscriber,
and charged at special rates. The cost of the call to services in
the 08 range shall be:
a) paid by the called party (eg, 080 Freephone numbers);
b) shared between the caller and the called party (eg, 0845 local
rate numbers); or
c) paid wholly by the caller (eg, 0870 national rate numbers).
A6.2 Operators and service providers shall offer services at the
stated tariffs, eg, the tariff for an 0870 national rate call shall
be no higher than the tariff for standard geographic national calls
in the 01, 02 and 03 ranges.
A6.3 Allocation of numbering in the 08 range will normally be in
blocks of 10,000, whilst tariffing will be in blocks of 100,000.
An exception will be certain recycled mixed length 0800 blocks that
are allocated in blocks of 1,000 numbers (such blocks are marked
accordingly in the Scheme). The number length will normally be ten-digits
(excluding the national prefix '0'), except, inter alia, for numbers
in the closed nine-digit 0800 (and 0500) number ranges. Any variation
from ten-digits must be with Oftel's approval and will be shown
in the Scheme.
A6.4 In order to allow meaningful tariff information, codes will
be allocated with A, and where relevant, with B, digits having the
following significance:
080 - No charge to caller*
082 - Internet for Schools
0844 - Up to 5ppm, set by terminating operator**
0845 - Originating operator's 'Local Rate'**
0870 - Originating operator's 'National Rate'**
0871 - Up to 10ppm, set by terminating operator**
* Except on certain networks where charges shall be notified to
callers at the start of the call
** Tariffs are inclusive of VAT
A6.5 Oftel may designate further sub-ranges for specific services/tariffs
from time to time. Information notes published by Oftel in the Numbering
Bulletin will set out any new sub-ranges.
A7. Premium Rate Services (090 and 091)
A7.1 The 09 range has been designated for Premium Rate Services,
both with and without content, and broadband services. In order
to preserve capacity and to provide service meaning to callers,
codes will be allocated with A-digits having the following significance:
090 - Premium Rate Content Services.
091 - Premium Rate Non-Content Services.
092 - 099 Broadband services.
Premium Rate Services
A7.2 Premium Rate Services are normally expected to have the following
characteristics:
a) they are paid for through the telephone bill of a subscriber;
b) they are charged at rates above Special Services in the 08
ranges;
c) the revenue for the call, which comprises the price of the
telephone call plus the content, product or service, is shared
between the operator and the provider of the service whether directly
or indirectly; and
d) they are not 'Find-me-anywhere' services.
A7.3 Premium Rate Content Services in the 090 sub-range are those
services which, apart from having the characteristics in Convention
A7.2, include a charge for the content of the call or other product
or service delivered in the course of, or as a direct consequence
of, the call, which charge is in addition to, or forms part of the
overall charge for, the telecommunications service which delivers
that content, product or service.
A7.4 Premium Rate Non-Content Services in the 091 sub-range are
those Premium Rate Services which are not Premium Rate Content Services.
A7.5 Allocation of numbering in the 090 and 091 ranges will normally
be in blocks of 10,000, although tariff distinctions will be made
at the 100,000 level. The length of 09 numbers shall be ten (10)
digits (excluding the national prefix '0').
A7.6 In order to provide service and tariff meaning to callers,
codes will be allocated with B-digits having the following significance:
0900/0901 Time charged calls up to and including 60ppm and total
call cost not greater than £5 or fixed fee up to £1
per call.
0902/0903/0904 Protected for PRS expansion.
0905/0906 Open ended time dependent charge or fixed fee.
0907 Pay for product that costs more than £1 in total.
0908 Protected for PRS expansion.
0909 Sexual Entertainment PRS.
A7.7 Further sub-ranges may be designated by Oftel for specific
services/tariffs from time to time. Information notes published
by Oftel in the Numbering Bulletin will set out any new sub-ranges.
Sexual entertainment Premium Rate Services
A7.8 In order to provide service meaning to callers, premium rate
sexual entertainment services, regardless of the charge for the
content, product or service, shall only be promoted and accessed
using 0909 and no other service meaning shall be given to 0909.
Sexual entertainment services are entertainment services of a clearly
sexual nature, or any services for which the associated promotional
material is of a clearly sexual nature, or indicates directly, or
implies, that the service is of a sexual nature.
A8. Broadband Services (092+)
A8.1 The ranges 092 to 099 have been designated for the use of
Broadband Services. These are services that allow a considerable
amount of information to be conveyed, such as television pictures.
Broadband is generally defined as a bandwidth that is more than
2Mbits per second. Broadband Services will in most cases be services
incapable of connection to or from numbers in other narrowband numbering
ranges.
A9: Access codes and short codes
A9.1 Access codes are short, generally memorable, three to six
digit numbers, usually beginning with '1', which allow end users
to access a wide range of telephony services. Lists of codes in
use or designated for use is included in the access codes sections
of the Scheme.
A9.2 Access codes are categorised by the type of service for which
they are used. There are three types of access codes: Types A, B
and C.
Type A access codes
A9.3 Type A access codes are used by callers to reach commonly
used services, such as '100' (operator services) or '123' (speaking
clock). These codes may be used throughout the United Kingdom by
all operators offering equivalent services (and may not be used
by any operator for any other service). More recently, the use of
Type A codes has been refined for particular services where there
is a social imperative, sometimes backed up by regulatory force,
such as '141' (suppress calling line identification) and '1800X'
(voice text services for the deaf). Type A codes will be designated
individually by Oftel for such services, not allocated to a particular
operator or a service provider.
Type B access codes
A9.4 Type B access codes have network-wide significance as they
are used by the end users of one public telecommunications operator
to have selected calls connected by an operator other than the one
from whom they rent their telephone line (known as Indirect
Access). For example, callers might use Type B codes to select
Indirect Access providers for long distance and/or international
calls. Type B codes can also be used by callers to access services
available from their own operators system or another public
operators system. These codes are allocated by Oftel.
Type C access codes
A9.5 Type C access codes are set aside for independent use by public
telecommunications operators, either to provide particular services
exclusively to their directly connected end users or for internal
network operations. The access code '150', which is used by British
Telecommunications plc for residential sales and billing enquiries,
and by Orange Personal Communications Limited for customer services,
falls into this category. Operators of different systems have the
opportunity to choose corresponding codes where it is convenient
and potentially beneficial to adopt a common approach, but are not
obliged to do so. While Oftel has designated a range, it does not
allocate Type C codes but, based on information supplied by operators,
their use is recorded in the Scheme.
Number of digits
A9.6 Given the need to ensure reasonable numbering capacity, allocation
of access codes will generally be on the basis of five-digit 1XXXX
codes. While three- and four-digit codes will no longer be issued,
three- and four-digit codes already in use will remain in use. Access
codes may, however, be withdrawn in accordance with Convention 6.
A9.7 Where appropriate, different access codes may be linked together
such as, for example, to allow choice of operator followed by access
to a second operator's service. However, there may be limitations
on the number of digits that the public system can handle in a single
string (see Convention A2.4).
Entitlement to allocation and maximum permissible holdings
A9.8 Type B access codes will be allocated on the basis of Company
Groups, with the entitlement generally being restricted to one access
code of each type set out in Convention A9.9 for each Company Group.
Oftel will consider requests for additional access codes on a case
by case basis. However, those who already have shorter-length access
codes shall not generally be allocated new codes, and will be expected
to extend their existing access codes.
A9.9 There are generally three types of Type B Access Code:
a) Access codes used for the purpose of a direct call set-up, where
the dialled digits of the access code and the following number are
treated as a single unit, or string, by the telephone
networks in setting up the call;
b) Access codes used as a prefix, where the second stage relies
on the conveyance of a Personal Identification Number (PIN);
and
c) Access codes that are used to access services, but which are
not necessarily used in conjunction with a following number, or
with a second stage which relies on conveyance of a PIN.
Emergency numbers
A9.10 In order to minimise the risk of misdialling or incorrect
routing on emergency calls, the use of digits '999' and '112' in
prominent positions in longer number strings should be avoided.
Short codes
A9.11 As outlined in Convention A2.7, digits other than '0' and
'1' may be designated by Oftel for public use (such as in the case
of '999'), but may not be used for other purposes. However, Oftel
is aware that certain operators use the '2XX' to '9XX' dialling
space as a means of providing end users with access to certain services
and facilities, on networks where only full national dialling is
possible.
A9.12 Oftel has no current plans to formally authorise this use
of such short codes. Accordingly, operators who continue to utilise
such codes should be aware that there may be implications in the
event of changes being made to the structure of the Scheme.
A9.13 The use of short codes represent substantial numbering capacity
and, for this reason, are recorded in the details of the Scheme,
where information is provided.
Conventions for other codes and numbers
B1: Inbound and internal routing codes
B1.1 Blocks of numbers in the 0899 range, from 08993 0 to 08999
9, will be available for allocation to operators for inbound routing
purposes. Numbers in those ranges will be ten (10) digits in length
and will normally be allocated in blocks of 100,000. Operators will
use the digits following 0899XX to identify service, carrier and
end user. Operators will be expected to use a structure that will
utilise the numbers efficiently. The need for further routing codes,
or an increase in the provisional limit on inbound routing codes,
will be addressed as and when necessary.
B1.2 Operators may use codes in the ranges 08990 to 08992 for internal
routing purposes without application to Oftel.
B2: Data network numbers and codes
Standards
B2.1 So far as it is practicable, the Scheme for Data Networks
will conform to relevant and applicable international standards.
Particular attention is drawn to the following ITU-T Recommendations:
X.121 International numbering plan for public data networks.
X.122 Numbering plan for inter-working between a packet switched
public data network ('PSPDN') and an integrated services digital
network ('ISDN') or PSTN in the short term.
B2.2 The country codes 234, 235, 236 and 237 have been assigned
by the ITU-T to the United Kingdom for data networks. These expand
by the addition of a network digit to a maximum of forty (40) Data
Network Identification Codes ('DNIC'). The four-digit DNIC is followed
by up to ten digits of the network termination number to form the
network user address and the normal practice is to use the full
international number on all data network calls.
B2.3 The United Kingdom Scheme will use the ten-digit decimal character
set 0-9 for all number allocations. Letters and other non-decimal
characters will not be allocated in any circumstances.
Numbering and codes
B2.4 Data network numbering capacity will be allocated in response
to requests from operators licensed to run systems offering packet-switched
data services in the United Kingdom. Allocations will not normally
be made unless or until the licensee has made arrangements to operate
a public network in the United Kingdom, having interconnection with
other such networks using the X.75 protocol or recognised alternative
interconnection standard.
B2.5 The maximum allocation would be a four-digit DNIC but, in
view of the possible shortage of DNIC, individual allocations will
be for only one-tenth of the gross capacity of a DNIC. Further allocations
within the same DNIC will be made as and when justified, but at
some stage it may become necessary for underused DNIC to be shared
between two or more operators. In preparation for such sharing,
operators of packet-switched data systems will be expected to engineer
their system to effect X75 routing on five digits rather than the
four digits of the DNIC. As an interim measure, an operator requiring
only a small amount of data network numbering capacity will be encouraged
to share a DNIC with other operators having similar requirements.
Oftel will give operators not less than six months' notice should
it become necessary for a DNIC previously allocated to one operator
to be shared with one or more other operators.
B2.6 The United Kingdom is not divided geographically for the purposes
of the data network numbering, although an operator may use the
first few digits of the network termination number to route calls
through to particular destinations serving end users within the
DNIC range allocated to that operators network. A list showing the
state of each of the United Kingdom's DNIC is given in the data
networks section of the Scheme. The licensed operator receiving
an allocation of data network numbering capacity will be responsible
for allocating individual numbers to end users.
B2.7 In accordance with ITU-T Recommendations, certain digit values
will not be used as the initial digit of the country code and/or
DNIC, but may be used for other purposes listed below:
1 DNIC in this range are used for public mobile satellite systems.
8 Escape from data network to telex (F.69).
9 Escape from data network to PSTN/ISDN (E.164 Analogue).
0 Escape from data network to PSTN/ISDN (E.164 Digital).
B2.8 Oftel does not expect to allocate data network numbering capacity
to private network operators, nor to operators of public networks
where there is no intention to interconnect with other public networks.
However, such operators may apply for a reservation of capacity
in the form of a 'latent' DNIC, as described in the Oftel publication
entitled 'Future allocation of Data Network Identification Codes
(DNIC)', issued in 1989.
B3: Telex numbering
Information on number allocation for telex services is available
from Oftel.
Glossary
Access Codes
Short, generally memorable, codes, usually beginning with '1', which
allow end users to access a wide range of telephony services.
Annual Numbering Return
Information supplied by operators to Oftel, at Oftel's request,
in a manner prescribed, and usually within one month of the year's
end.
Broadband
A service or connection allowing a considerable amount of information
to be conveyed, such as television pictures. Broadband is generally
defined as a bandwidth that is more than 2Mbits per second.
Company group(s)
'Company group' has the same meaning as the term 'group' as outlined
in Section 262(1) of the Companies Act 1985; namely it means a parent
undertaking and its subsidiary undertakings (both of which are defined
in Section 258 of the Companies Act 1985).
Conservation area
A geographic code area that has a realistic expectation of number
exhaustion within the foreseeable future. This definition is based
on knowledge of operators' business plans in a particular area or,
generally, the amount of numbering capacity available and on information
provided in operators 'Annual Numbering Returns'. Oftel will publish
and keep updated the list of Conservation Areas and it will be available
on the Oftel website.
The Conventions
The United Kingdom's National Numbering Conventions. These are a
set of rules and principles that govern the use, management and
allocation of numbers from the Scheme. It is a breach of the Numbering
Arrangements Condition, contained in the licence granted to an operator
under Section 7 of the Telecommunications Act 1984, for an operator
to not have a Numbering Plan, or to have a Numbering Plan that does
not accord with these Conventions.
Country code (CC)*
The combination of one, two or three digits that identifies a specific
country or countries in an integrated numbering plan or a specific
geographic area. The public switched telephone network CC for the
United Kingdom is 44. This code follows the international dialling
prefix on calls made from outside the United Kingdom, and should
be followed by the NSN of the destination within the United Kingdom,
excluding the national dialling prefix, '0'.
Data Network Numbering and Data Network Identification Code (DNIC)
Data network numbering conforms to international standards and is
assigned to the United Kingdom by the ITU-T as required. A four
(4) digit DNIC is followed by up to ten (10) digits of the Network
Termination Number to form the Network User Address, and the normal
practice is to use the full international number on all data network
calls.
The Director
The Director General of Telecommunications.
'Find-me-anywhere' services
These are services that enable end users to be contacted, whatever
their location, where the call charge is not distance dependent.
Mobile, personal numbering and paging services shall all use the
'07' range.
ITU Telecommunications Standardisation Sector (ITU-T)
The ITU-T is a permanent organ of the International Telecommunication
Union ('ITU'), the United Nation's specialised agency in the field
of telecommunications. The ITU-T is responsible for studying technical,
operating and tariff questions and issuing Recommendations on them
with a view to standardising telecommunications on a world-wide
basis.
Local rate
An indication that the price for the call is equivalent to the rate
for a geographic local call set by the relevant originating operator,
where such a rate exists.
Mobile service
A telecommunications service consisting in the conveyance of messages
by means of a telecommunication system, where every message that
is conveyed thereby has been, or is to be, conveyed through the
agency of wireless telegraphy to or from a telecommunication system
which is designed or adapted to be capable of being used while in
motion.
National Destination Code (NDC)*
A nationally optional code field, within the international public
telecommunications numbering plan as set out in the ITU-T Recommendation
E.164 number plan, which, combined with the subscriber number, will
constitute the National Significant Number. In the United Kingdom,
this corresponds to the area code, used before the called subscribers
number, where the calling and called subscribers are in different
numbering areas. In the United Kingdom, the NDC varies from two
(2) to five (5) digits.
National Rate
An indication that the price for the call is equivalent to the rate
for a geographic national call set by the relevant originating operator,
where such a rate exists.
National Significant Number (NSN)*
This refers to that portion of the number that follows the country
code for geographic areas. The National Significant Number consists
of the National Destination Code followed by the Subscriber Number.
In the United Kingdom, the standard national destination code is
ten (10) digits.
Number Block
A unit of 1,000, 10,000, or 100,000 numbers depending on the section
of the Scheme to which the number pertains.
Number Portability
This is a facility whereby subscribers who so request can retain
their number on a fixed public telephone system and on the integrated
services digital network ('ISDN'), independent of the organisation
providing the service at the network termination point of a subscriber
at a specific location, in the case of geographic portability, or
at any location, in the case of non-geographic portability.
Number Range
A set of contiguous numbers of a specified or unspecified size.
Numbering Arrangements Condition
The condition contained in certain licences granted under Section
7 of the Telecommunications Act 1984. This deals with numbering
arrangements in respect of numbers commonly referred to as 'public
numbers', such as a licensee's obligation to adopt a numbering plan
for such numbers allocated to him by the Director General of Telecommunications
from the Specified Numbering Scheme in accordance with the Conventions.
This is currently Condition 26 of PTO licences, and Condition 22
of the Telecommunications Services Class Licence ('TSL') and equivalents
in other licences.
Numbering Plans
Plans that licensed operators adopt for such numbers as are allocated
to them from the Scheme. These plans describe the method adopted,
or to be adopted, for allocating and reallocating a number to any
network termination point, user, telecommunication apparatus or
service element. The Numbering Arrangements Condition in the licence
granted under Section 7 of the Telecommunications Act 1984 obliges
a licensee to have a numbering plan that is consistent with the
Conventions. Pursuant to that condition, the Director may request
such information about the licensee's operations under its numbering
plan as he may reasonably require to administer the Scheme.
Operator
A person, usually a corporation, that runs a telecommunications
system under a licence granted in accordance with the Telecommunications
Act 1984.
Personal Numbering Service (PNS)
This is a service based on number translation that enables end users
to be called, using a single personal telephone number, and to receive
those calls at almost any telephone number, including mobile numbers.
Personal numbers are suitable for end users who habitually move
location. For the avoidance of any doubt, personal numbers shall
not be used for Premium Rate Services.
Prefix, National or International
The prefix is one or more digits which indicate that the digits
that follow are from a different geographic area or another part
of the numbering plan from the originating number. In the United
Kingdom, '0' is used as the national dialling prefix and '00' is
used as the international prefix to access other countries.
Premium Rate Services (PRS)
Services that are paid for through the telephone bill of a subscriber,
and charged at rates above those for Special Services. The revenue
for a PRS call may be shared between the operator and the provider
of the service.
PSTN
Public switched telephone network.
The Scheme
The United Kingdom's Specified Numbering Scheme (also known as the
'SNS'). The Scheme indicates the number ranges that are delegated
for particular purposes or not delegated (see Convention 7).
The SNS List
The list of codes and numbers that make up the Scheme, published
by Oftel on its website and updated, normally, on a weekly basis.
The SNS List gives details of the current status of delegated parts
of the Scheme, eg, allocated, free, protected or reserved.
Special Services
Services that are paid for through the telephone bill of a subscriber,
and charged at special rates, from free up to, and including, national
rate. Charges for these calls can be paid by the called party, shared
between the caller and the called party, or paid wholly by the caller.
Subscriber Number (SN)*
The number identifying a subscriber in a network or numbering area.
In the United Kingdom, the Subscriber Number varies from eight (8)
to five (5) digits and is part of the Scheme.
Telecommunications Numbering and Addressing Body (TNAB)
A body approved by the Director as representative of public telecommunication
operators and other persons whom the Director considers it appropriate
to include in consultations about the content of the Conventions
and the Scheme. (At the time of publication no such body has been
approved).
* - Indicates that this is based on an ITU-T Recommendation

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