Ofcom advisers request feedback on communications issues

The Communications Consumer Panel has launched a public consultation into its proposed work plan for 2010/11.

The panel of independent experts looks at issues in the communications markets from the perspective of consumers and small businesses.

It pays particular attention to the needs of older people and those with disabilities, in rural areas and on low incomes, as well as the needs of small businesses.

It subsequently advises Ofcom, government and industry on the most appropriate actions to take.

The plan for the next two years has highlighted six areas the panel believes needs addressing but the panel wants input from the public.

Anna Bradley, the panel’s chairwoman said: “The panel would like to hear people’s views on whether we have identified the right areas to address, and if we’ve targeted the right action to take.”

The six areas the panel will look at are digital inclusion and participation; mobile, including coverage; regulatory decision-making processes; consumer protection and empowerment, including switching and complaints-handling; consumer engagement with the internet, including illegal file-sharing and, finally, universal service, including implementation of the universal broadband commitment.

It said it would also keep key consumer concerns that might need its intervention under review and will retain the flexibility to react as new issues arise.

Copies of the plan can be read on the website. Responses to the public consultation can be sent via email and should be made by the closing date Friday 26 March 2010.