The survey shows call success rates for all four mobile network operators on test routes around the UK between October 2001 and March 2002.

On a national level almost 97 per cent of calls were connected and completed successfully.

The survey also allows consumers to compare companies’ performance in East Anglia, London, the Midlands, Northern England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, South East England, South West England and Wales.

On a regional basis the survey shows that the performance of different companies can vary considerably. This makes the information genuinely useful to consumers when choosing their telephone service.

David Edmonds, Director General of Telecommunications said today:

"This information is important if the 46 million mobile consumers in the UK are to be able to make informed choices about which operator can offer them the best deal.

"It is good news for consumers that on a national basis almost 97 per cent of calls are completed successfully.

"On a regional basis, however, the performance of different companies can make a big difference to the quality of service consumers can expect.

"What might be the best network for somebody living in Scotland, might not be the best network for someone living in the South East of England. Consumers can use these surveys to compare the performance of the different phone companies in their area."

Oftel also supports information, published by the industry, to help consumers compare the performance of different fixed telecoms companies. This is available at www.cpi.org.uk and from local libraries. http://www.oftel.gov.uk