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BT social scheme a helping hand in the right direction - Mick Bates
October 20, 2008 12:00 AM
Liberal Democrat AM Mick Bates has given a cautious welcome to the launch of a new BT scheme 'BT Basic' aimed at helping people on low incomes who require a telephone, perhaps for emergency purposes, but who make little use of it.
The new package is usually available to those receiving Income Support, Income Based Job-Seekers Allowance and those with Guaranteed Pension Credit. The scheme offers a significant reduction in line rental at £13.50 for three months with free calls up to the value of £4.50 every three months.
Commenting Mick stated:
"It is high time for BT to take action to help households on low income and I welcome any scheme which offers reduced line rental cost. However, while this scheme can offer a benefit to those on low incomes, at the end of the day there is sound business sense at the heart of this package.
"Under this scheme people will pay more for exceeding their call allowance and will be tied into paying line rental and committing a minimum amount of money each month, which in the current economic climate many people may struggle to afford.
"Many households on low incomes face the problem that their outgoings can vary from month to month and they may not have the money available on a monthly basis to cover the line rental charge.
"I welcome the new package by BT as a helping hand in the right direction, but there is more to be done. As BT close telephone boxes across the country, having a personal phone will become increasingly important and I believe that BT should offer a basic package open to all, regardless of income."
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