ITSPA announces support of Ofcom's 999 decision

The Internet Telephony Services Providers' Association (ITSPA) has backed Ofcom's proposal to make 999 mandatory for some types of voice over internet protocol (VoIP) services.

As a result of Ofcom's decision, all VoIP hardware that allows users to call national phone numbers will be required to provide a 999/112 service from September 8th this year.

ITSPA chair Eli Katz said: "ITSPA has always advocated the requirement for VoIP services to offer 999 and many of its members are already providing this service. Whilst we have had some concerns with aspects of the proposals and timescales for implementation, we are supportive of the Ofcom statement."

The Ofcom announcement comes as the European Union considers proposals to require all telephony providers to offer access to emergency services.

Meanwhile, Ofcom has appointed former consumer affairs director of the Financial Services Authority Anna Bradley as chair of its independent consumer panel.