Consumer group calls for action in digital TV row

by Robin Parker, Media Week 14-Mar-07, 12:10

LONDON - Consumer campaigning body The Consumer Panel has joined calls for Ofcom to resolve the battle between Virgin and BSkyB.

The pressure group has written to Ofcom chief executive Ed Richards, claiming that the dispute is failing customers, who are finding it hard to know the best option.

The move follows similar concerns voiced by the National Consumer Council.

While in theory the three million Virgin customers who are now without Sky's flagship channels can switch, the process is too complex and time-consuming for many to resolve themselves, the watchdog argues.

In the letter to Richards, Colette Bowe, chair of The Consumer Panel, says: "We are concerned that there are, right at this moment, consumers who are being disadvantaged and who will find it difficult to use the normal mechanisms available in other market places to get what they want - and are paying for."