PRA - The Premium Rate Association

Member Zone

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."

Function

Consultations

The PRA participates in relevant consultations, represent ing the views of its members. Generally, consultations of interest to our industry, are issued by Phonepay Plus , Ofcom and the DBERR . Members' contributions and views are always a welcome element to the PRA response.

Liaising

As an association the PRA constantly liaises with the many regulatory bodies, associations and organisations having a control or an interest in the Premium Rate Industry. By undertaking this promptly, efficiently and in an unbiased manner it frees its members' time and resources, which are far better spent working and developing their core business whilst the PRA deals in a constructive way working towards the successful conclusion of relevant issues.

Code Compliance

The PRA proactively works with its members to try to prevent breaches of the Phonepay Plus Code educating them about Code provisions and the regulations by which they are they are bound. Regular communications, including Newsletters, Copy Advice and Support, enable the PRA to offer industry and regulatory knowledge which can, in many cases, avoid costly and unpleasant situations from ever arising.

Press Office

The PRA has conducted radio interviews (Talk Live, Radio 4) and submitted information for articles within the press (Guardian, Which?) promoting the industry and helping to protect its image to those less informed on the global picture . From TV production companies through to national and regional newspapers, we have been involved in dealing with queries which often require us to defend, protect, and promote our industry.

Information and research

The PRA is often approached by its members with day-to-day enquiries and requests for various pieces of information. In these cases we aim to offer the best advice available and, when appropriate direct the caller to the relevant source.

Government

The PRA also meets with MPs to keep them informed about current industry issues and offer support and advice with any constituent enquiries they may encounter.

Consumer advice

When consumers come directly to the PRA for advice, they are offered straightforward advice relating to their enquiry and if applicable are redirected to the relevant body, be it a service provider, Phonepay Plus or any other organisation as appropriate.