Ofcom Decisions on 03 numbers

Ofcom is amending the Plan to introduce 03 numbers, which will be designated as being priced in the same way as geographic numbers. Customers will pay no more to call 03 numbers than they would pay to call a standard geographic 01 and 02 numbers (up to national rate).

Calls to 03 numbers also will be treated like calls to calls to standard 01 and 02 numbers in respect of their inclusion in bundled minutes and whether they qualify for discount packages.

Revenue-sharing with end users will not be permitted on 03 numbers.

The restrictions on the use of 03 numbers are quite limited, allowing flexibility in how 03 calls are delivered in a technical sense. Some restrictions in the definition of 03 numbers were removed in response to consultation responses.

Numbers beginning with 030 will be specifically made available for use by public services and other not-for-profit organisations.

Ofcom will maintain guidance on its website on the type of bodies falling within this definition, to assist CPs with their decisions to allocate 03 numbers to end users.

Ofcom's guidance includes more types of organisation following comments received in consultation responses.

Ofcom is also making it possible for end users who have numbers beginning with 084 and 087 to transfer to the equivalent number in a 03 number range.

The first 03 sub-ranges to be available for allocation

0300 - Public services and other not-for-profit organisations

0303 - Public services and other not-for-profit organisations

0306 - Public services and other not-for-profit organisations

0330 - Any organisation or end user

0333 - Any organisation or end user

034X - Specific users currently using the equivalent 084X numbers

037X - Specific users currently using the equivalent 087X numbers

For further information, please visit the Ofcom link below;

http://www.ofcom.org.uk/consult/condocs/numbering03/03allocation/