C&W calls time on CallNet

Cable & Wireless has pulled the plug on troubled ISP, World CallNet, the telco confirmed today.

A spokesman for the company said it took the action within the last 24 hours because "substantial monies" was owed to C&W.

"They are in serious financial difficulties," said a sombre spokesman.

It's understood that CallNet's former PR company is among a number of outfits to have issued winding up orders against the company for money owing.

And unconfirmed reports suggest another e-outfit, Worldcom, also pulled the plug on CallNet although no one from Worldcom was available for comment.

Indeed, no one was available from CallNet since all the lines were down.

Last week, however, the new head of World CallNet denied that the ISP was in trouble despite rumours of it being cash-strapped and laying off staff.

Gerard Farley, president of World CallNet told Regthat the ISP service was a "very valuable service" and that he had no intention to run it into the ground.

He said: "The 0845 business is as strong as it has ever been and we're delighted with its performance."

He blamed a whispering campaign for negative publicity about the ISP. It appears on the evidence of today that the hoarse whisperers were right. ®

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