Consumers will find it easier and quicker to keep their mobile telephone number if they move to a new network operator.

New rules set by Ofcom, the communications regulator mean that from 1 September 2009, people must be able to receive calls using their existing number within two hours of switching to a new mobile network.

The move follows Ofcom's earlier decision to reduce mobile number porting lead times from the current five days to two days from 1 April 2008.

In addition, the industry will be obliged to ensure that the new porting process includes the necessary levels of protection for consumers.