Murdo has urged BT to ensure that elderly and vulnerable residents are not left without access to emergency services during the transition to digital services.
He said he was aware of some constituents in Perthshire who were unable to use their digital phones following the impact of Storm Amy, a few weeks ago.
Power cuts led to many digital landlines not working, and in some areas there was no mobile coverage as an alternative.
Commenting, Murdo said: “I very much back the Connect Together campaign by BT, which is aimed at educating and informing their customers about the digital landline switchover. The company state that their ‘particular focus’ is on reaching elderly and vulnerable customers who may find this transition more challenging.
“We need to ensure that elderly and vulnerable residents can communicate with family and friends, and, in some cases, emergency services in the event of future storms. BT do supply a battery back-up pack, which also can be bought online, in the case of emergencies.
“I am pleased to note that BT have acknowledged that some customers need reassurance about the switchover from the analogue phone landline to the digital one. I would call on BT to ensure customers are sure and confident that they have a sufficient back-up in the case of emergencies before they continue with the roll-out of digital landlines.”
Murdo continued: “By January 2027, the old analogue network will be completely switched off, to be replaced by new digital landlines which work using broadband. I would therefore encourage any residents who would like more information on the switchover and who wish to find out what help can be provided in the event of another storm, to look at this campaign.”
Anyone wishing more information on BT’s Connected Together website should click on the following link: www.bt.com/about/all-ip/connected-together.
