§ Mr. LetwinTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what representations she has received in relation to nuisance calls, originating from telephone-sales organisations in possession of equipment that allows them to make multiple calls; and if she will make a statement. [37114]
§ Mrs. Roche[holding answer 31 March 1998]: Ministers in this Department have received one representation concerning nuisance calls from telephone-sales organisations in possession of equipment that allows them to make multiple calls since taking office last May. Under the Telecommunications Act 1984, companies using automatic calling equipment are subject to a class licence which contains measures aimed at limiting the nuisance which can be caused by unsolicited calls. Anyone using automatic calling equipment for sending multiple calls must do so only to those who have given their consent in writing, or face possible enforcement action by Oftel, including the removal of their right to operate a telecoms system.