Local MP Philip Dunne encourages constituents to switch onto mobile phone savings

Local MP Philip Dunne today welcomed new advice from telecoms regulator Ofcom and consumer champions Consumer Focus and the Communications Consumer Panel aimed at helping consumers get the most from their mobile phone deal and save money.

New figures from Ofcom accredited price comparison site Bill Monitor show consumers could save around hundreds of pounds a year* by switching to the best mobile package for their needs.

Mr Dunne said:

"With more than 9 million different phone deals available many consumers will not know where to go for advice. This new guide provides impartial, reliable advice for consumers on how to save money and the rights questions to ask to get a mobile phone deal which suits their needs.

All those with mobile phones know how patchy mobile telephone coverage is in Shropshire. Identifying the network with the strongest signal where you live will be a great benefit to consumers."

The guide provides helpful tips on what to ask a provider before buying, such as whether there are any additional costs, the length of contract, details on upgrades and also looks at the pros and cons of contract and pay-as-you-go deals.

It advises on how to get the best deal from a mobile provider such as checking out mobile coverage in the UK before buying, and switching to cheaper online billing. There are also tips on using mobile phones abroad and how to keep your mobile number when switching provider.

The advice guide is available from the Ofcom and Consumer Focus web sites.