You may have heard the radio spot where you're asked to go to sign an online petition demanding more choice when it comes to Internet providers. Sounds reasonable until you discover who's behind it - Telus. The ad slams Bell & Rogers for buying up independents and trying to be the only two real national Internet services for consumers. 

The problem for me is that Telus is no better than the other two and seems angry that they can't get into the Web cabal the other two control. There's no real evidence presented that letting Telus expand its service to the east that it would in any way result in lower prices. Because that's never happened and is unlikely to if the third party provider was allowed into more markets.

Here's what their page says:

"We believe you should have the choice to select who provides your internet. It's your choice on which brand gives you the best price and quality. The federal government is trying to limit competition, restricting the brands you can choose from. This includes preventing TELUS from being able to expand our Internet service across Canada." 

I'd actually like to see Telus be able to expand across the country. But I'd like Teksavvy to be able to do it, too. And others who seem squeezed by the Big Three. 

It's a nice try on Telus' part and I'm sure the stations running the commercials appreciate the revenue. But I don't for a moment believe Telus will charge any less than the other guys. True competition would be letting everyone compete for your dollars. That's how you really find savings. 

You can find the "Demand More Internet Choice" petition here. As of this posting, it's attracted more than 84,000 signatures.