International calls

I phoned a client of mine on his mobile and he stated that he was then abroad. Surprised, I immediately said sorry and that I would call him back on his return.

My point is that I needed to talk to him and by the tone of his voice he was not too happy that he was going to be charged for a call that I was making to him.

I totally agree with this, as on a recent trip the same happened to me and I paid the consequen-ces when my mobile phone bill arrived.

Isn't it possible that our two mobile phone companies introduce a system which I think is available with today's latest technology, that entitles the caller to a choice, if the receiver is abroad, with a simple message that: "The recipient you have called is currently overseas, should you wish to continue this call at your own expense please press 1, if not kindly hang up".

This, I presume, would be convenient to all parties concerned.