Elizabeth France, the current Information Commissioner, will
begin a new role in October as the country’s first Telecoms
Ombudsman, heading a new industry-funded consumer body.
The Telecoms Ombudsman will investigate complaints from
consumers against their telco and can order companies to provide
compensation if they are found to be at fault. The aim is for a
fair, impartial, speedy and effective service.
The new Telecoms Ombudsman Elizabeth France is currently the
Information Commissioner, responsible for the enforcement of the
Data Protection Act 1998 and the Freedom of Information Act
2000.
Elizabeth France announced earlier this year that she did not
wish to renew her current contract as Information Commissioner,
which is set to expire in November. No replacement has yet been
announced.
David Edmonds, Director General of Telecommunications, said
yesterday that major telcos have agreed to fund the new body. He
added:
"I have written to the Chief Executives of
the telecoms companies which have refused to give their support
asking them to reconsider. I look forward to working closely with
Elizabeth France and the Telecoms Ombudsman Council to ensure that
consumers have access to a fair and impartial service to
investigate their complaints."
