Half of households could switch to faster broadband

Half of British households could switch to faster broadband today, according to Ofcom, as the regulator announced proposed new rules that would make internet providers tell customers about their best deals.

A new comparison site could show the best deals.

A review of broadband pricing practices would also be launched, alongside a new consumer website Boost Your Broadband.

The website would offer information on broadband available in a user’s area and advice on how to find the best deal.

Ofcom said 94 per cent of UK homes and offices could now access superfast broadband, but less than half had taken up the service and many were paying more than they needed to.

The regulator said the review into pricing practices in the industry would focus on concerns customers were paying more for similar or worse services once introductory offers had expired.

The new website has been backed by the UK government and consumer body Which? as well as consumer champion Gloria Hunniford.

Ofcom chief executive Sharon White said: “We’re concerned that many loyal broadband customers aren’t getting the best deal they could.

“So, we’re reviewing broadband pricing practices and ensuring customers get clear, accurate information from their provider about the best deals they offer.”

The new rules propose internet firms, as well as mobile, landline and pay-TV providers, must alert customers about their best deals or tariffs.

They must do so when any discounted deal customers are on is coming to an end and also every year after that if they do not change their deal.

Consumer minister Kelly Tolhurst said: “Our consumer protection regime is one of the strongest in the world, but there is always more to do to ensure people know their rights.

“I welcome Ofcom’s Boost Your Broadband campaign to help consumers find the best deals. Broadband is a vital service and we want to see people getting a high-quality service without paying more than they need to.”

The Boost Your Broadband website asks users to enter their postcode before telling them the different broadband speeds available in their areas. Users can then choose what type of internet user they are and will be offered tips on how to get the best deal from their existing provider or elsewhere.

Richard Neudegg, head of regulation at uSwitch.com, welcomed Ofcom’s announcements. “As our slowest street data brought to life earlier this week, consumers are getting very different outcomes from the broadband market, and in many cases this is simply due to a lack of awareness about the better services available to them,” he said.