Commentary on Sections Part 2: Networks, Services and the Radio Spectrum Chapter 1: Electronic Communications Networks and Services Section 142: Procedure for directions under sections 140 and 141
332.Unless a case is urgent, before exercising their powers under sections 140 and 141, OFCOM must notify a contravening provider or supplier of the proposed direction, allow him at least one month to make representations and consider each representation made by him.
	*The meaning of an urgent case is set out in subsections (4) and (5).  Such a case arises where there is a serious threat to public safety, public health or national security or a serious economic or operational problem that makes it inappropriate to give a contravening provider or supplier time to make representations.
333.If a case is urgent, OFCOM may give a direction without consulting the contravening provider or supplier. However, as soon as practicable after giving a direction in an urgent case, OFCOM must provide the relevant contravening provider or supplier with an opportunity to make representations and to propose steps to remedy the contravention.