WASHINGTON – The White House said on Monday it agrees with a citizen petition arguing that ‘jailbreaking’ of mobile phones to allow users to switch carriers should be legal.

In a statement released on the White House petitions web page, presidential aide R. David Edelman said the administration supports the view of more than 114,000 signers who argued they should be able to unlock their cell phones without criminal or other penalties.

“It’s common sense, crucial for protecting consumer choice, and important for ensuring we continue to have the vibrant, competitive wireless market that delivers innovative products and solid service to meet consumers’ need,” Mr Edelman said.

“This is particularly important for secondhand or other mobile devices that you might buy or receive as a gift, and want to activate on the wireless network that meets your needs – even if it isn’t the one on which the device was first activated. All consumers deserve that flexibility.”