Whatever happens with BT ownership, jobs and the national interest must be protected

BT has announced that the government is to look into the 18% stake Altice UK holds in the company under national security legislation.

Altice UK announced the stake in December with some saying it was a prelude to a full takeover.

Mike Clancy, General Secretary of Prospect, responded:

“BT is one of the jewels in the crown of UK R&D and tech innovation so it is right that the government is taking an active role in scrutinising it’s future.

“Whatever happens with the future ownership of the company the government also needs to ensure that our national interest, infrastructure and jobs are protected. BT is too important to our future economic needs.”