18th October 2007
News Reaction: Today Deloitte report for ITV will reveal extent of premium rate phone fiascos

ITV has just revealed the results of a self imposed investigation by accountancy firm Deloitte, which details the extent of the premium rate phone fiascos that have rocked the premium rate, interactive and broadcast industries since ‘Richard and Judy day’ back in February 07. 

Shows including Ant And Dec's Gameshow Marathon and Saturday Night Takeaway were among those involved, an audit of ITV's output has found. ITV executive chairman Michael Grade described the findings as "horrible" and "inexcusable".

The company made £7.8 million from uncounted votes. Mr Grade said ITV would reimburse those who were misled.

Nobody has been sacked as a result of the findings.

Roy Ellyatt , Chairman of NOC says: “This is a commendable action by ITV to put its house in order. The  report from Deloitte’s supports the NOC’s original view that this was well intentioned management failure rather than any malicious intent to defraud consumers. We echo and support the call to restore consumer confidence in these incredibly popular services.”

Network for Online Commerce (NOC) the leading trade association for the PRS and interactive media industry is coordinating cross-industry action to produce an interactive TV guide which transcends both fixed and mobile telecoms services in this specialized area.

Using a process document produced by NOC Executive Members, NOC will shortly publish this guide which is aimed at bringing clarity and best practice advice to all involved in the provision of interactive TV programming that utilizes fixed and mobile telecoms. The aim is to help re-build consumer trust in this popular programming which has provided entertainment to millions of people over the past few years.

For further information, interviews or photography please contact:
Tim Banks
infomob PR
tim@infomob.co.uk
Tel: + 44 (0) 1273 810952

NOC sits at the heart of Telemedia, the converging interactive media and entertainment industry. We are the only trade association with membership across fixed line, mobile, internet and iTV environments providing critical industry intelligence, networking and representation. Our vision is of a dynamic, well-regarded and profitable global Telemedia industry. Our mission is to achieve our vision through representation and communication between the Industry, its Regulators, Legislators and the media.