Government must ensure any takeover of BT maintains R&D and protects jobs

BT has announced that the UK government is to take no further action after french company Altice moved to increase its stake in the company to 18%, a potential prelude to a full takeover.

The government had previously instigated a review into the national security implications of the increased stake.

Mike Clancy, General Secretary of Prospect, said:

“BT is one of the jewels in the crown of UK R&D and tech innovation, so it is vital that the government plays an active role in its future, closely scrutinising any proposed deal that could see its ownership change.

“The government should not only be taking a view on national security grounds but also what will be in the best long interests of growing the UK’s tech and innovation base.

“If a takeover does go ahead Prospect will be working to protect terms and conditions of its staff, as well as our R&D base.”