Ofcom to simplify switching procedure

Telecoms regulator Ofcom is vying to simplify the consumer and business broadband switching process by creating a new body to deal with transitions.

It is hoped that the move would stop firms from temporarily losing their internet connections or having to pay two providers simultaneously while their original contract expires.

Ofcom wants the process of switching to be streamlined, as well as cracking down on the practice of switching without consent.

Ed Richards, Ofcom chief executive, said: "Many people think the current systems are too difficult and unreliable, which is why we have made it one of our priorities to tackle this problem."

The move has been welcomed by industry experts, who have long called for changes to how business broadband and consumer internet packages are bundled, resold and switched.

Under the new rules, the new ISP will take sole responsibility for switching and it is possible that the switching process will have to be verified by a third party.