Lamb - Action needed on cost of using mobiles abroad

1.09.51pm GMT Thu 3rd Nov 2005

Norman Lamb MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow Trade & Industry Secretary, has called for action by regulators and the mobile phone industry to tackle the massive variations in charges for using mobiles abroad. A study into the cost of receiving and making calls abroad by Mr Lamb found:

· Massive variations in charges between operators; e.g. receiving a call whilst in Spain costs 30p/min on Orange Anytime 120 subscriber, but 94p/min on O2 Pay Monthly - a difference of over 210%.

· Consumers charged for receiving and making calls abroad

· Consumers charged international rates for making local calls abroad

· Lack of transparency over billing

The report has been handed to OFCOM and to the European Regulators Group with a view to a full investigation in to the issues raised. Commenting, Mr Lamb said:

"Mobile users are increasingly taking their phones on holiday abroad, and it's time international charges reflected the real cost of phoning home.

"Outrageously current charges mean both the caller and the recipient pay for calls made to UK mobiles abroad.

"International charges vary dramatically between operators, but this has resulted in a consumer lottery rather than effective competition. Regulators and the industry must bring an end to rip-off charging."