Oftel published its Welsh Language Scheme in December 2002 setting out how, in the conduct of its public business in Wales, it will treat the English and Welsh languages on the basis of equality.

Oftel’s aim is to provide a consistent and reliable service for Welsh speakers. The statement commits Oftel to make changes across the public facing areas of its work in Wales. It will have a number of practical effects that should benefit members of the public in Wales who speak Welsh, including:

• a Welsh speaker has been recruited to Oftel'sConsumer Representation Section. Oftel has also put in place a dedicated telephone line 020 7634 8843 which will enable callers wishing to speak in Welsh to contact Oftel’s Welsh-speaking member of staff directly;

• information leaflets published by Oftel and intended for the general public in Wales will be made available in English and Welsh; and

• Oftel will ensure that wherever relevant, measures in the statement are applied to new policies and initiatives when they are implemented.

Oftel's Welsh Language Scheme is published on Oftel’s website at www.oftel.gov.uk/publications/about_oftel/2002/wls1202.htm

For further information contact Neil Paterson (tel: 020 7634 8732 / e-mail: neil.paterson@oftel.gov.uk)