Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, if she will take steps to restrict the extent to which phone companies may increase tariffs in the context of the increased cost of living.

The Government recognises that this is a difficult time for families across the country who are struggling to pay their bills as a result of the global rise in the cost of living.

The sector remains highly competitive and UK consumers can currently access some of the lowest mobile pricing in Western Europe. However, it is important that contracts are transparent and consumers understand what they are signing when taking out a new communications service. Ofcom recently announced it has begun a programme of work to consider whether contracts are sufficiently transparent. I look forward to their findings.

In June 2022, leaders from broadband and mobile operators agreed on a set of industry commitments to help people through the global rise in the cost of living. These include manageable payment plans and allowing households, who may be mid-contract but struggling with their bills, to switch to cheaper packages without penalty.