Thumbs up from BT on Ofcom proposals

Switching broadband should be easy

BT has given its backing to Ofcom proposals to make it easier for consumers to change broadband providers.

The regulatory body wants it to become mandatory for all broadband providers to supply a migration authorisation code (MAC) to customers who want to switch.

In a statement, BT said: "We are fully committed to the MAC process - we want to make sure customers who choose to switch can do so without fuss."

A number of ISPs, including BT Retail, already supply customers with MACs on request. However, at present, this is done on a purely voluntary basis with ISPs adhering to a mutually agreed code of practice.

As it is voluntary, Ofcom cannot take any action when MACs are withheld. Ofcom has recommended making ISPs legally obliged to supply the information, so that the policy can be enforced.

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However, BT has some concerns about how this process is to be achieved, with Ofcom suggesting wholesale broadband suppliers should take responsibility rather than individual ISPs.

In response to the Ofcom consultation document BT said: "BT thinks MAC is best enforced rigorously at the retail level because this is where the customer has the contact and the relationship with their provider."

BT added that: "The answer is not to mandate the provision of MAC codes by the wholesale broadband service provider."