TMA backs Oftel as storm brews over report

A row is developing between the Telecoms Managers Association (TMA) and the UK Trade & Industry Select Committee which published a report yesterday slamming telecoms regulator Oftel's handling of phone numbering systems.

David Harrington, director general of the TMA, contacted Silicon.com this morning to say the TMA contributed extensively to the report but its input had been "misinterpreted".

Harrington said: "We wholeheartedly support Oftel's work and believe the report has got it badly wrong."

The report claims Oftel failed to account for consumer and business best interests in its handling of phone number changes. The Select Committee was also concerned that a second planned redesign to the system could put free phone numbers in jeopardy.

The report's overall concern is that Oftel is failing to consult customers sufficiently before making changes. It substantiates this claim through evidence submitted by a number of organisations - including the TMA. The report quotes the Association: "While Oftel continues to consult, there is some evidence that it is now doing so reluctantly."

But Harrington told Silicon.com: "Oftel has considered all the alternatives and has consulted extremely widely." He added that "heavy lobbying" by user groups representing companies who are concerned about losing their freephone numbers had resulted in the report's criticisms.

The TMA will issue a statement distancing itself from the report later today.

Oftel said it was not appropriate to comment on the TMA's claims, but a full response to the report is being prepared.

None of the MPs involved in the Trade & Industry Select Committee were available to comment on the developments this morning.