What is Audiotext?
A voice response application that allows users to enter and retrieve information over the phone.
Audiotext Code of Practice
All audiotext service providers are automatically licensed under the Class Licence scheme. They need to comply with the Class Licence conditions and are required to register with MDA.
Audiotext service providers – including those who offer chatline services – also need to comply with the Audiotext Code of Practice. This sets out the measures that chatline operators have to put in place.
Ensuring Compliance
An audiotext service provider who contravenes the Class Licence conditions or the Audiotext Code of Practice will be given a chance to rectify the breach within three days of MDA’s notification.
If the audiotext service provider fails to rectify the breach within the stipulated period, MDA is entitled under section 12 of the Broadcasting Act (Cap 28) to impose fines and/or suspend or cancel the application of the Class Licence for the audiotext service provider.
An audiotext service provider is deemed to have used its best efforts if MDA is satisfied that it had taken all reasonable steps within the circumstances to comply with the Class Licence conditions and the Code of Practice.