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UK consumers pay the lowest domestic peak-rate prices for access to the Internet in Europe and the US, according to a survey by telecommunications regulator Oftel. The survey found that Sweden has the second-least expensive prices, but these are 28 per cent higher than those in the UK.

Digital travel information plan_2

Business travellers will soon be able to receive automatic flight information on their mobile phones, laptops and palmtops. Several big carriers, including American Airlines, United Airlines and Singapore Airlines, have announced that they will provide information on delays, cancellations and gate numbers in this way.

Birmingham rolls out own system_2

An NHS trust’s “homemade” e-procurement system, claimed to be thousands of pounds cheaper than established packages, is being adopted by other trusts.

Tougher market sparks BE review_2

Nuclear-power generator British Energy is reviewing its procurement strategy in the face of increasing competition in the UK, writes David Arminas.

“It’s a review of how we provide services, in particular for our core business,” said British Energy procurement manager Maurice Masters.

Firms warned about hidden costs_2

As the October round of electricity contract negotiations moves into full swing, electricity customers are being warned about possible hidden costs and urged to question consultants about commission arrangements.

Internet tendering moves closer

The first stage of a pilot project designed to make all aspects of European Union public procurement totally web-based has been launched this month by the University of Sunderland and QSP NetConsulting.

Revamp prompts CGU chief to quit

Alf Noto, director of supply chain and purchasing at CGNU, the UK’s biggest insurance company, is to leave this week after bosses at the newly merged firm decided to split his job three ways, writes Geraint John.

Agency pushes to double card use

The Environment Agency is reviewing its major regional framework agreements in a bid to double its use of purchasing cards.

Airlines form online travel site

British Airways and 10 other European airlines, including Lufthansa and Air France, are launching an online travel agency at the end of the year. The website will be managed independently and the companies will not share sensitive information, such as pricing data, in order to remain competitive.

NatWest’s purchasing chief quits

Peter Smith, group purchasing director at NatWest, is to leave the company after new owner Royal Bank of Scotland’s decision to move the job north of the border, writes Geraint John.