Consumer information plays a crucial part in maintaining healthy competitive markets whereby engaged consumers can compare communications services and switch between them.
Ofcom has a role in helping consumers make effective choices based on easily available, accessible and up to date information. Since 2006, we have run an accreditation Scheme for price comparison websites (PCWs) that aims to provide assurance that the price comparison calculations of relevant services (e.g. fixed-line, mobile, broadband, television services) offered by accredited providers are accessible, accurate, transparent and comprehensive.
At present six PCWs are accredited by Ofcom.
On 29 May 2013, Ofcom issued a consultation reviewing the Scheme to ensure it remains valuable and relevant to consumers and PCWs. The consultation suggested that the Scheme is generally working effectively without the need for fundamental revision, and proposed a number of changes to the scope and operation of the Scheme.
The consultation closed on 15 July 2013 and we received 14 responses, most of which were generally supportive of the changes proposed. This statement summarises the responses and sets out our final decision in regard to modifying the Scheme.
Based on our previous assessment as set out in the consultation document, careful analysis of consultation responses, and additional discussions with PCWs, Ofcom has decided to implement the following requirements for accredited PCWs in relation to the scope of the Scheme. Accredited PCWs must:
In respect of the operation of the Scheme, Ofcom has decided to implement the following:
We expect accredited PCWs to implement changes as soon as is practically possible, and will monitor compliance via our normal process of audits and spot checks. Applicants will be expected to be able to meet all the criteria, including the changes to the Scheme set out in this statement.
Responder name | Type |
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Broadbandchoices.pdf (PDF File, 39.4 KB) | Individual |
BT.pdf (PDF File, 52.1 KB) | Individual |
Communications_Consumer_Pan1.pdf (PDF File, 46.9 KB) | Individual |
Consumer_Futures.pdf (PDF File, 492.0 KB) | Individual |
EE.PDF (PDF File, 250.1 KB) | Individual |