Ofcom Announces the End of G22 Rules

Ofcom has announced that its much-used General Condition 22, which came into being in 2007, may no longer be in use. The GC 22 was a boon to broadband users who found the rule extremely useful during migration from one service to another to prevent any mix-ups by providers.

The provision is used by Ofcom to arbitrate any disputes that arise when a user gives a MAC code to shift from one provider to another. Quoting falling complaint figures as the reason for disbanding the provision, Ofcom pointed out that in 2007 there were 825 complaints in this regard. The number of complaints has now come down to 147, showing that the area no longer needs such a close watch or stringent guidelines.

Further, enforcement and study by Ofcom representatives have shown that most providers are complying with the regulations without any need for caution or warnings from Ofcom. As most consumers are able to change providers without any issues, there is no longer a specific need for such regulations, the telecom watchdog said.

Earlier, service provider Pipex was one of the most carefully scrutinised ISPs owing to a number of complaints received against them with respect to MAC codes. Pipex was also issued a warning in 2008 for violation of rules. Following this, the provider seems to have taken necessary steps to ensure compliance, as the number of complaints against it has reduced drastically.

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