MPs add their voice to Computeractive's broadband campaign

Members of Parliament have added their support to Computeractive's Crystal Clear broadband campaign, which has shown that nearly two-thirds of consumers are achieving less than half of the advertised download speeds from internet service providers (ISPs).

Derek Wyatt, chairman of the All Party Internet Group, said: "I hope your campaign comes to the attention of Ofcom and that it conducts a review."

The campaign also garnered support from Conservative MP George Young.

"I agree that there's insufficient consumer understanding of what's realistic to expect in terms of day-to-day performance and that suppliers have a key role to play in setting realistic expectations rather than hyping the maximum as if it were the norm. I do believe Ofcom has a role to play," he told us.

The communications regulator also welcomed the campaign and said it was raising awareness among consumers about the issues of speed and technical limitations of broadband.

It added the data and information Computeractive readers had submitted using our speed test helped give it more insight into what is going on in the marketplace.

"We are aware of the issues of speed and have been asking to the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) to step in when there was unfair advertising. Although speed is not a high profile problem for us it is something we already look at informally," we were told.

The watchdog did not rule out a formal investigation although would not yet commit to one. We think Ofcom should begin an investigation now however.

The campaign has also gained a new official partner: the Plain English Campaign. Spokesman Ben Beer said: "We urge our supporters to sign the petition on the Downing Street website.

"Many people find modern technology complicated enough without having to plough through small print and jargon. Broadband companies have a responsibility to be honest with their customers and not rip them off."

More than 3,000 people have currently signed our petition on the 10 Downing Street website, which urges the Government to instruct Ofcom to force ISPs to advertise a typical rate for broadband subscriptions, not just a theoretical 'maximum' rate. Every signature will make a difference so please take a moment to do so at the site below.

Computeractive's editor Paul Allen said:“It’s clear that the question of misrepresentation in advertising by the ISPs has struck a chord with UK broadband users.

"Since the campaign has already gained such widespread support, we are optimistic that with sustained pressure Ofcom and the ISPs will recognise that this is an issue that needs to be addressed.”
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