Guernsey mobile phone regulations relaxed

Mr Byrne said the market now needed less direct regulation

Rules regarding the way mobile phone companies in Guernsey operate are to be relaxed, the industry regulator has announced.

The Office of Utility Regulation said the market had sufficient competition for it to have greater freedom.

Michael Byrne, deputy director general, said the change would be good for consumers.

He said by creating a more level playing field islanders could exercise their choice and vote with their feet.

The changes include removing or reducing a number of reporting obligations and removing the obligation on Sure to provide 21 days notice of price changes before it makes them.

Mr Byrne said: "As the competitive market matures consumers have greater choice and the role of regulation changes, with less need for direct control over what the operators offer.

"We have spent a considerable amount of effort getting the mobile market to the point where operators can now compete more evenly. As a result the need for direct regulatory involvement has diminished."