Communications Act 2003 (Maximum Penalty and Disclosure of Information) Order 2005

From these Benches, we welcome the introduction of this order and the increase in the level of the fine. I do not find the £250,000 excessive. I am sure that in the case of the small firms, they probably need putting out of business anyway, because if they are not offending they will not be fined. That is my opinion. I would like to have clarification of a number of points. First, will the Minister clarify the situation that has already been mentioned in which the premium rate supplier is an overseas firm? I can understand that it would be difficult for ICSTIS to collect any substantial sum of money from such a firm at all. Secondly, can the Minister comment on the recovery of charges? We are aware that some people have suffered losses of £800 or £1,000. What provision is made for recovering those? Finally, I want to make a point about the position of the network providers—such as BT, which is also gaining benefit from the rogue firms. If there is a fine outstanding on a firm or there is any money going to the firm, it should not be permitted to accept any call charges and should refund those. What can the Minister say to that? However, we generally welcome the order.