It has been confirmed that a voluntary agreement has been reached between BT and Ofcom about the future of Openreach as a separate legal entity within the BT Group. Ofcom will now commence consultation about the proposal prior to implementation and Prospect, together with CWU will contribute to that consultation.

Whilst Prospect believes that members  will be relieved that agreement has been reached and that the long period of uncertainty is at an end I am sure there will be many questions about what the future will hold. Importantly no TUPE transfer of staff will take place until legislation is in place extending the Crown Guarantee to cover Openreach as a separate legal entity to ensure that those staff who have access to the BT Pension Scheme will continue to do so.

There will also be a lengthy period of TUPE consultation during which Prospect will ensure that members terms and conditions of service will be fully protected. Furthermore we will be seeking assurances about job security and career opportunities as things unfold. The Company have prepared some FAQ's following the announcement which members may find helpful but we will make sure that members are kept informed of developments as they arise.