Updated BT statement on Class Action claim from Mishcon de Reya

This statement has since been updated as procedural matters relating to the case have progressed.

The latest statement can be found at: https://newsroom.bt.com/bt-statement-on-competition-appeal-tribunal-procedural-hearing-on-certification/

• BT intends to vigorously defend itself against the claim of overcharging pre-existing customers

• Ofcom considered the subject three years ago – there was no finding of excessive pricing or breach of competition law more generally

• BT’s social tariff, pandemic response and leadership in Customer Fairness demonstrate BT’s commitment to Connect for Good

BT will defend itself vigorously against a class action claim being brought by law firm Mishcon de Reya, which accuses BT of anti-competitive behaviour towards its pre-existing landline customers.

BT regrets being drawn into litigation on a topic which Ofcom considered more than three years ago. At that time, Ofcom’s final statement made no finding of excessive pricing or breach of competition law more generally. The claim seeks to hold against BT the fact that it implemented a voluntary commitment to reduce prices for customers that have a BT landline only and not to increase those prices beyond inflation (CPI).

BT takes its responsibilities to customers very seriously, launching BT Home Essentials this month, a market leading social tariff connecting those on low income with affordable fibre connectivity and calls. It builds on BT’s initial social tariff, launched in 2008, to provide futureproof fibre connectivity at a time when online resources have never been more important.

BT offers free text, data and minutes to those who need it most and staff are fully trained to work with vulnerable customers, offering priority fault repair. BT’s pandemic response (NHS data, Digital Skills, and Lockdown Learning Support), and a major focus on leading in Customer Fairness, clearly demonstrate that BT wants to live up to its purpose and Connect for Good.

A BT Spokesperson said: “We strongly disagree with the claim being brought against us.

“We take our responsibilities to customers very seriously and will defend ourselves against any claim that suggests otherwise.

“We take pride in our work on the Customer Fairness agenda. For many years we’ve offered a discounted social tariff in what is a competitive market with competing options available, and this month we are extending that to help a potential four million households on low incomes, save on bills and stay connected to vital online services.

“We assure our customers that we will not let this claim disrupt the relationship BT has with them. We will continue to support our customers through the pandemic and beyond.”