Some call centres use these systems to make marketing calls and
often dial more numbers than there are operators available – in the
expectation that some of the people being called will not be home.
Unfortunately this can leave recipients without an operator on the
end of the line, resulting in a "silent call".
"Many people are distressed when they receive silent calls, but
do not realise that many of these calls come from firms selling
products and services over the phone," Mr Brennan told the BBC. "It
is outrageous that vulnerable people are being subjected to
unnecessary and frightening nuisance calls by corporate
concerns".
Brennan has put forward a private members bill, which, if
passed, would enable customers to trace the calls and take action
against the companies involved.
It is unlikely that the measure will become law, due to a lack
of parliamentary time, but the MP hopes that the Government will
take the idea up in future legislation.
At present the only protection against cold calling for
consumers is the Telephone Preference Service (TPS), which sets out
a list of individuals who have opted-out of receiving direct
marketing calls. Registration is free, and can be carried out in
writing, over the phone or on-line.
The TPS was set up in 1999 and direct marketing firms have a
legal obligation to check and comply with the list before calling.
Failure to do so can result in enforcement action by the
Information Commissioner.
In June this year the right to block cold calls through the TPS
was also extended to businesses.
