Consumers should be able to transfer their mobile phone numbers to an alternative network provider within hours, said a recent Ofcom report.

From 1 April 2008, the telecoms regulator wants all mobile service providers to transfer numbers no later than two days after a consumer has decided to switch operators.

By September 2009, operators will be required to switch numbers to new networks "almost instantly" or within a maximum of two hours.

Users currently have to wait up to five days to switch their number, which is done by cancelling their existing contract and obtaining a Porting Authorisation Code (PAC). This is used to transfer their number across to the new network provider. However, Ofcom believes this is “too lengthy and places too much responsibility on the consumer.”

Ed Richards, CEO at Ofcom, said: “The UK was one of the first countries to introduce number portability and this has helped create a competitive mobile market in the UK.

“However, the original process is now out of date. We believe the industry should introduce a new system which will stimulate competition and encourage consumers to exercise choice between competing suppliers, with a minimum of inconvenience.”

However, service providers are concerned that this doesn't give them adequate time to carry out proper credit and identity checks.