Ofcom has today proposed new measures to ensure that "extra charges" are fair and that landline, broadband, mobile and pay-TV providers clearly market the true cost of their services. Consumers have long complained about unexpected charges, which often crop up as part of complicated contract terms.

Some providers are known to make a range of additional charges, for example, when consumers choose to pay by cash or cheque rather than by Direct Debit; cancel a contract before the minimum period has finished; or make a late payment.

The regulators draft guidance stresses the need for providers to be clear and up front with their customers, doing more to make it easy for users to understand the charges. The key proposals are as follows:


The consultation is published here:
http://www.ofcom.org.uk/consult/condocs/addcharges

The closing date for responses is 8 May 2008. Ofcom expects to publish the final guidance in autumn 2008.