Don't call us - or I'll call you (bad names)

A report published today has recommended that rogue firms behind unwanted sales calls are fined up to £500,000 for being pains in the you know what.

The Nuisance Calls Task Force (I wonder if they have to wear a uniform) also argued that company directors should be held personally responsible for the estimated one billion nuisance calls received by long-suffering members of the British public each year.   

Speaking on BBC Radio 4, Task Force chairman Richard Lloyd made clear that many firms were acting illegally by contacting people who had "opted out" of receiving calls through the Telephone Preference Service.  And he called for the law to be more rigorously enforced.  

I have to admit to being slightly at odds with myself over this issue.  

On the one hand, it is outrageous that so many businesses think it is acceptable for them to thumb their nose at legislation which expressly prohibits such activities.        

But on the other, when I'm having a bad day, I find it slightly liberating to have the opportunity for a rant at some poor soul who has phoned up to sell me cheap windows.   

On balance though, it is clear that the law should be toughened and adhered to.  And while they're at it, maybe something can also be done about chuggers.