'plain old brokerage services' - as opposed to platforms

fimonkey

1. Where and who are these plain old brokers? (For small investors apparently they are better than 'platforms')

EDIT well I found this link http://www.londonstockexchange.com/exchange/prices-and-markets/stocks/tools-and-services/find-a-broker/locate-a-broker-detail.html?brokerId=75 and this seems to think that TDF are brokers - but they are also a platform?? (one of the ones I was considering moving to actually from ii). SO WHEN IS A BROKER ALSO A PLATFORM? - Cor to say I am confused is an understatement right now!

2. Do brokers have a regular investment service which brings down the dealing fee for trading on a certain day of the month?

3. Can you hold stocks and shares AND tracker funds with low TER's with the plain old broker?

4. Canyou hold everything in 3. in an S&S ISA with a plain old broker?

4. Do they charge for 'holding' your account etc?

I suppose number 1 is the most important question to answer - thanks in advance.

dunstonh

Most unbundled platforms are also brokers. You need a broker that isnt a platform. Halifax sharebuilder is often suggested by some as an option for small share investors.