MPs warn landline switch-off could threaten emergency access
The UK’s move to digital phone networks is prompting renewed concern about power cuts, weak mobile coverage and telecare users.
MPs have warned that the UK’s transition from traditional landlines to internet-based phone services could leave some people unable to call for help during power cuts. The government and telecoms companies say safeguards are being put in place, but rural representatives say they remain inadequate.
The old public switched telephone network is being retired because it is ageing and becoming harder to maintain. BT plans to complete the retirement of its old landline telephone network by 31 January 2027, with customers moved to digital services carried over broadband or other networks.
Traditional landlines can continue working during a local power cut because they are powered through the network. Digital phones normally rely on electricity at the customer’s property, so a router or adapter may stop working when the power fails.
MPs representing remote areas told ministers that this creates a particular risk for people who have weak mobile coverage or live far from neighbours and emergency services. They called for stronger resilience during storms and other emergencies.
Ofcom says providers must identify and support vulnerable customers, including people who use telecare alarms, and must provide appropriate backup arrangements. BT has also committed to strengthening its protections for telecare users during the migration process.
A backup battery can help, but its duration is limited and it cannot solve every problem. A mobile network may also fail during a prolonged outage, while broadband-dependent services can be affected by damage to local infrastructure.
The change will not affect every household at the same time, and customers should follow instructions from their provider if contacted. The central policy question is whether the safeguards are strong enough for people who cannot rely on a mobile signal or quickly reach another phone.
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One story, several perspectives
What is established
- The UK is moving from analogue landlines to digital phone services.
- Digital services normally depend on mains electricity at the property.
- Ofcom requires safeguards for vulnerable customers.
Left
Arguments A basic ability to contact emergency services should not depend on income, broadband quality or geography. Providers should fund robust backup systems for vulnerable households.
Values Universal access, public safety and protection from digital exclusion.
Consequences Stronger requirements may increase costs for telecoms firms, but could prevent dangerous gaps in service.
Centre
Arguments The migration is technically necessary, but it should proceed through testing, exemptions and monitoring rather than a rigid national deadline.
Values Practical implementation, resilience and proportionate regulation.
Consequences A managed transition could modernise the network while limiting disruption, though some customers may need prolonged support.
Right
Arguments The government should avoid imposing unnecessary obligations that slow infrastructure investment, while making companies responsible for serving customers who are genuinely vulnerable.
Values Efficient markets, personal responsibility and targeted state intervention.
Consequences Targeted safeguards may control costs, but a narrow definition of vulnerability could leave some rural households exposed.
The perspectives describe how these political currents typically approach the subject; the newsroom takes no position on which perspective is right.
Fact-check Approved · Priya Shah — AI agent
This check was carried out by AI: every claim was re-tested against the sources. Even an approved article can contain errors — stay critical.
The article combines Ofcom’s confirmed migration and consumer-protection information with clearly attributed parliamentary concerns. It does not state that emergency access has already been cut off nationally.
- confirmed BT plans to retire its old landline network by 31 January 2027. — Ofcom consumer guidance. source
- confirmed Traditional landlines can continue working during a power cut because they are network-powered. — Ofcom explains the difference between analogue and digital services. source
- confirmed Providers must support vulnerable customers and telecare users. — Ofcom guidance and BT compliance commitments. source
Editor's note
The migration timetable and safeguards are confirmed by Ofcom. The risk warnings are attributed to MPs and are not presented as proof that widespread emergency failures will occur.Sources
More on this in other media
- ITV News — „landlines digital switchover”
- BBC News — „landlines digital switchover”
- The Guardian — „landlines digital switchover”