PRA - The Premium Rate Association

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News

PhonepayPlus Announce Zero Increase in Levy

Following consultation with industry, PhonepayPlus reduced its proposed 2009/10 budget to 0.0% on 2008/9. This was subsequently presented to, and approved by, the Ofcom Board.

As a result, PhonepayPlus has announced that its levy for 2009/10 will be 0.48%. The levy applies to all outpayments payable by network operators to service providers in respect of revenue generated by premium rate services, and is calculated as a proportion of every outpayment to ensure that PhonepayPlus continues to receive adequate funding to carry out its activities, as required by Section 121 Communications Act 2003.

Phonepayplus had previously announcement in it business plan last year that the regulatory agency was planning to increase its levy by 2.4%.

Concerned by the impact that the increase would have on the industry the Premium Rate Association met twice in January with Paul Whiteing, CEO at PhonepayPlus, to discuss the budget and at those meetings put forward a number of cost saving measures.

On hearing the news Premium Rate Association Chief Executive Suzanne Gillies commented "We are delighted that PhonepayPlus has listened to our concerns and has now made adjustments to its budgets."

What We Do

At the PRA we do the detailed analysis of documents drawing upon our wealth and breadth of experience. We respond to consultations from the governing bodies, such as Phonepay Plus, OFCOM, and DBERR etc. When responding to these consultations it is our aim to represent the industry in a straightforward and positive light. Having cut through the red tape and jargon within the original documents we collate and report all salient facts to our members and invite feedback on relevant issues, ensuring an accurate reflection of members’ views and standpoints.

Our attendance at the many industry forums provides representation for our members, guaranteeing individuals and the industry have a voice, which is heard, in all the right places. The PRA is more than just another “club”; we actively communicate with MP's on pressing issues and lobby parliament on regulatory changes.

All of our members can get advice on any issues or concerns they may have. Guidance is also offered on interpreting the Phonepay Plus code. Membership also entitles you to utilise the PRA and all of its contacts and experience in seeking resolution to any breaches or disputes with Phonepay Plus.

We are a fountain of knowledge for premium rate services and almost all things associated with them, whether that's fixed or mobile telecoms, TV, press or radio. We are just a call or email away.

In addition to all of this we produce regular news letters, provide quarterly members’ meetings covering industry change and issues, which is followed by a networking session. As a trade association we often get approached by companies wishing to use “Premium Rate Services” asking us to recommend providers obviously being a member and appearing on our web site gives you the advantage . We are often the first choice of new would be players who rely upon our reputation as a trusted trade association of high integrity and vast experience, we are only too happy to pass these leads on to you, our valued member.

Why? Because the market is a minefield, and both new players and the industry approach us as a reputable and trusted trade association.”