29/01/2002

Oftel reports 45% of UK homes have Internet access

Latest figures from the telecommunications regulator Oftel have revealed that 45 per cent of UK households are connected to the Internet, compared to a figure of 30 per cent at the same time last year.

Oftel's review, of the Internet market, which shows that 11 million homes across the UK are connected, was published on Tuesday January 29.

Oftel’s review of the Internet access market looked at narrowband dial-up Internet access using the Public Switched Telephone Network, but not broadband Internet access using DSL, unbundled local loops or cable modem services.

David Edmonds, Director General of Telecommunications, said: "Oftel’s review of the Internet access market shows that consumers have access to a wide range of services and prices for using the Internet that are among the best in the world.

"Oftel’s latest research shows that 11 million UK homes, 45 per cent, are connected to the Internet, including four million homes using unmetered Internet access.

"Dial-up narrowband Internet access is how most consumers start using the Internet, so it is important we have a thriving and competitive Internet access market.

"Action by Oftel, notably the requirement on BT to offer wholesale unmetered Internet access, has helped to put this flourishing market in place. The network charge control also offers robust protection to consumers."

Mr Edmonds said that Oftel would be taking forward a number of initiatives to support Internet take up and improve customer satisfaction.

He confirmed Oftel would shortly be publishing a new consumer guide to help people choose the right Internet access service for their needs.

(AMcE)

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