Mobile sector to undergo Ofcom review

The telecoms watchdog is launching a new investigation into the mobile phone sector
An investigation into Britain’s multibillion-pound mobile phone sector is to be launched by the telecoms watchdog amid fears that regulation is not keeping track of radical changes in the industry.

The review — the first of its kind by Ofcom — is to be launched early next year. It could lead to cheaper mobile calls and new wireless services for consumers. It is also expected to address competition issues in areas such as network-sharing, under which previously fierce rivals such as Vodafone and Orange are planning to merge their phone networks in an effort to cut costs.

It could also examine ways to prevent a second “mis-selling scandal” of the kind that is overshadowing the industry at present.

An Ofcom spokesman said: “The project will assess our future approach to the mobile sector. It will consider the changes facing the sector and any implications for Ofcom’s future regulatory approach. ”

The mobile sector has come under the spotlight recently after a series of concerns about alleged irresponsible and anti-competitive behaviour by the network operators.