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<p>Ofcom, the independent national regulatory authority for communications has agreed
a voluntary industry code of practice on broadband speeds. It was introduced in 2008
and subsequently updated in 2010, and requires internet service providers to provide
consumers with information on the maximum speed they can achieve, including an estimated
speed range, to help ensure that consumers choose the package that is the most appropriate
for them in light of their individual circumstances and needs. All the largest internet
service providers representing 98% of the broadband consumer market are signed up
to the Code and have agreed to abide by its principles and spirit. Headline broadband
speeds advertised are unlikely to be achievable all the time. There are a variety
of reasons for broadband speed variations, not all of which are within the broadband
service provider�s control. The important thing is that consumers receive accurate
information on broadband speeds at the point of sale to allow them to make informed
purchasing decisions, and ensure that there is not a mismatch between the speeds they
expect to receive and what they actually get.</p><p> </p><p>Ofcom has undertaken successive
mystery shopping exercises to check compliance with the Code. Results have shown that
the level of compliance has continued to improve. The latest results published in
May 2013 found that overall 96% of mystery shopping callers were provided with a speed
estimate (93% in 2011/12). There was also an improvement overall in the provision
of speeds information provided to mystery shoppers via the web. All signatories to
the Code, with the exception of two small providers, offered a speed checker which
provide estimated access line speeds. The percentage of assessments where any speed
estimate was given via the website rose from 87% in 2011/12 to 92% in 2013.</p><p>
</p><p>Ofcom is currently discussing with industry and consumer groups, its proposals
to revise the Code to reflect significant changes in the broadband market since the
Code�s introduction, with the increased take up of superfast packages. The proposals
include improving the information on speeds for consumers buying superfast packages
to equal that received by consumers buying current generation services.</p>
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