09 July 2009 | Author: Katie Todd

Ofcom keeps coverage map under carpet

Telecommunications regulator Ofcom yesterday published a map detailing the UK's 3G coverage, but it seems as though the watchdog had been hiding the information for some while, contradicting its claim to have the public's interest at the fore.

According to The Register, former business journalist Simon Fluendy requested information regarding the UK's 2G and 3G coverage last April but his application was rejected two months later on claims that the information requested was incomplete and, supposedly, an 'internal' affair at the watchdog.

Telecoms companies are required to provide Ofcom with information regarding their coverage zones and can pinpoint the exact volume of 2G and 3G coverage within a range of mere feet. Ofcom, a regulator with the interests of the public at heart, is then supposed to make this information available to the public so that company comparisons can be drawn for prospective service customers, as well as providing current consumers with an easy way to find out where their phone will work.

However, the map eventually published by Ofcom yesterday is not only vague - and half a year out of date - but it contradicts the communication sent by the company to Fleundy, thus negating its image of transparent regulator.

Last year, Ofcom attempted to hide data through the law by requesting that the High Court prevented it from having to publish a national database, yet another move that could prove powerfully damaging to the watchdog's reputation. After all, what's the use of having regulators when they don't reveal their findings to the benefit of the public?

With the smartphone battle hotting up between major players and new models of the iPhone, Palm Pre and Android mobiles vying for consumers attention, it's likely that news of Ofcom's supposed concealment will anger many. After all, a number of internet-ready, high spec phones are tied to certain providers, making it essential for those selecting a new 3G device to know whether surfing will be a breeze in their area.

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