PAK code, what's the law, if any?

[sjwright]

Hi There

My brother quite foolishly took a contact out with 3 in the UK, and transferred his number over (using a PAK code which T-Mobile were more than happy to hand over). He quickly realised how bad 3 were as a company, and a telecoms provider (I told him so!).

He sent back the handset, and the contract was ended, that was 2 weeks ago. At the time of returning the handset and cancelling the contract he asked for his PAK code, which they assured they would send to him over the phone.

This was before the postal strikes, and he still hasnt received it. He has called them and they are refusing to give it to him over the phone, and said they will send out another letter which will take 7 days. He is self employed and has already lost a lot of business through not getting his number back.

What is the law on this? Are they legally allowed to retain it like this? What advice could you offer to him?

[ABerrant]

Mobile telephone network providers may set their own policy on how they deliver a PAC (Porting Authorisation Code) e.g. in writing by post or email, or over the phone. They are hardly 'retaining' the PAC by selecting a postal option instead of a speedier delivery.

If your brother wishes to complain to the body which regulates the industry then I point you to Ofcom...

http://www.ofcom.org.uk/