Ofcom update the 0870 numbering plan

new rules for all communications service providers:

• encouraged not to charge higher tariffs for telephone calls to 0870 numbers from fixed lines and mobiles than calls to “geographic rate” numbers (01 numbers,02 numbers, (03 numbers; and


• To include 0870 calls in call packages on the same basis as geographic calls.



Communications providers that want to continue charging for 0870 calls at rates above those for geographic numbers are now bound by strict rules about how prices are publicised on websites and in promotional material at point of sale.


Communications providers are responsible for making sure their customers know how much they will be charged for calling an 0870 number and they are not allowed to advertise 0870 numbers as “national rate” unless they are charging at geographic rates.