Situation Vacant: Telecoms Ombudsman

Oftel wants to see an independent Telecoms Ombudsman appointed to resolve disputes between consumers and the industry.

Speaking today, the head of Oftel, David Edmonds, said he was right behind the scheme and pledged his support for the new position.

A telco ombudsman would be in place by the middle of next year, he said, no doubt just in time for the mayhem that will accompany the ribbon cutting of local loop unbundling (LLU).

"The appointment of an independent Telecoms Ombudsman would show that the UK telecoms industry is serious about taking on more responsibility for resolving issues with customers, and will work with Oftel and consumers on more responsive and accessible initiatives," said Edmonds.

According to Oftel, customer complaints are on the increase and while Oftel tries to resolve many them, there are some that even it, the winged watchdog, simply can't do.

Earlier today the FT reported that Edmonds had admitted that Oftel was slow to resolve issues concerning LLU. ®