Ref: 28/02

Date: 21 May 2002

Oftel is today allocating new telephone numbers to companies wanting to offer directory enquiry services to consumers.

Over 80 companies have applied for the new six-digit numbers, which will mean that for the first time consumers will have a wide choice of directory enquiry services.

Instead of being tied to the service provided by their existing telephone company, consumers will be able to choose from a variety of different directory enquiry services from a choice of companies.

These could include specialist services in other languages or services that connect people directly to the number requested.

Oftel initially expects to allocate about 300 different six-digit numbers, starting 118.

To ensure that all companies are treated fairly and have an equal chance of getting the most desirable numbers (eg 118118) Oftel is issuing the numbers by lottery.

The first companies drawn at random will get their preferred choice of number.

David Edmonds, Director General of Telecommunications said today:

"I am delighted to see so many companies are keen to provide new directory enquiry services. A wide range of companies are involved - from large household names to small specialist providers.

"By the end of the year consumers should have a choice of innovative new directory enquiry services - all operating on easily recognised six-digit numbers beginning 118.

"I expect UK consumers to see the same benefits already enjoyed by consumers in Germany and Ireland of a range of new services, lower prices and improved quality of service."

The new numbers will run alongside the existing directory enquiry numbers, such as 192 and 153, for a period of time to ensure that consumers have the chance to get used to the new numbers.

Note to Editors

1. The statement Allocating access codes for directory enquiry services was published in March 2002 and is available on Oftel's website at www.oftel.gov.uk/publications/numbering/2002/dqall0302.htm

2. The current industry agreed timescale for launch of new services is October 2002. The existing directory enquiry numbers, such as 192 and 153, are planned to be withdrawn in August 2003, after a period of parallel running.

3. The lottery will be held in a number of rounds and each company will only be allocated one number in each round.