(Telecompaper) UK mobile operator Three, broadband and mobile provider TalkTalk, the Federation of Communication Services and consumer portal LetsSaveMoney.com have written to Ofcom CEO Ed Richards to urge the telecom regulator to move towards a Gaining Provider Led process when customers switch operators. At present UK mobile customers have to go to their existing provider to ask permission to move to a new operator. This can be very frustrating for the customer as they often have to face an annoying and lengthy call with their old provider. According to the companies, the UK mobile switching process is almost unique in Europe in requiring customers to deal with two providers, making it harder to secure better deals, undermines competition and leads to considerable consumer harm. Ofcom launched a consultation on the switching process in July and is due to publish its findings in the first half of next year.