Press & PR

Telecoms watchdog Ofcom has put plans to make 0870 numbers cheaper on hold for what it says will be a "short period".

On February 1st 2008, landline users were meant to be able to call 0870 numbers and be charged the standard rate rather than the current 10p a minute.

But the Guardian reveals that the date is likely to be moved as Ofcom claimed that it could affect some household alarm systems.

Consumer groups were concerned about the prices of 0870 numbers which are often used by companies for their customer services line.

Being left on-hold could clock up a hefty bill for those on the end of the line, while people ringing from a mobile are currently being charged up to 40p a minute.

A spokesman for Ofcom told the newspaper: "There's no change to our overall policy. The key point about these changes is bringing down the price of calls to 0870, which will happen in spring next year.

"The pre-call announcement option would only be relevant to providers who chose to depart from that general rule. We will keep any delay to a minimum."

Vonage offers a low cost alternative to traditional fixed telephone line providers, by routing calls over an existing broadband connection.