BT : Ofcom Opens Probe Into BT's Compliance as Universal Broadband Provider

By Adria Calatayud

U.K. regulator Ofcom said Thursday that it has opened an investigation into BT Group PLC's compliance with its obligations as a broadband universal service provider.

The regulator said it is concerned the U.K. telecommunications company might not be correctly complying with regulatory conditions where it assesses excess costs for a given connection.

Under rules introduced in 2018, customers can request an upgraded connection from BT if they can't receive affordable broadband services with a certain minimum speed, the regulator said. Ofcom's conditions set out how BT should assess the costs of providing a connection.

The regulator said it will now gather evidence and expects to determine its next steps before the end of the year.

BT shares at 0909 GMT were down 2.4% at 103.45 pence.

Write to Adria Calatayud at [e-mail]

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

10-15-20 0528ET