Prospect calls for worker protections as BT acquires TalkTalk

Prospect has called on BT and the government to work closely with trade unions and protect workers’ rights following BT’s acquisition of TalkTalk.

Prospect General Secretary Mike Clancy said:

“Millions of consumers, including wholesale customers that depend on connectivity to deliver critical public services, could have been left in the lurch by the collapse of TalkTalk. Against that backdrop, it is sensible that BT has stepped forward with a viable commercial solution.

This development underlines the growing importance of broadband as a critical national infrastructure asset. However, we welcome Ofcom’s assurance that the transaction will be subject to the appropriate regulatory scrutiny and clearances.

While the continuity of service appears to have been secured, this announcement is likely to create uncertainty for workers. We therefore expect BT and the government to engage fully and transparently with recognised trade unions throughout the process to ensure a smooth transition and to safeguard jobs, terms and conditions, and workers’ rights.”