moneysupermarket.com: The porting of mobile phone numbers

Commenting on Ofcom’s announcement on the introduction of new regulation regarding the porting of mobile phone numbers, Rob Barnes, head of mobiles at moneysupermarket.com, said: “This announcement from Ofcom is excellent news for consumers. Networks have been able to port numbers for around 10 years, yet many people still don’t realise this is an option .

“Slow transfers can affect consumers considerably, for instance if you don’t plan ahead you may have to run two phones side by side (and pay for them both) while this takes place.

“Practically, there is no reason for porting to take so long – the network is simply matching an IMEI to a mobile number on its system. It seems Ofcom understands what a simple operation this is and is finally taking action. I think the regulator could have gone further than waiting until 2009 to enforce a two-hour transfer time, but at least progress is being made.

“For too long the networks have been making it difficult to leave them with your original number – ultimately meaning people are reluctant to move network for fear of losing the number they have had for years. This will raise awareness of the simplicity of the process – which even allows the porting of prepay-to-contract – and enable consumers to get the best deal possible.”