BT Must Let Its Competitors Access Fiber Broadband Network, UK Regulator Says

BT, the UK's largest phone company, must allow competitors to control fiber lines in its high-speed broadband network, regulator Ofcom said. Rivals including TalkTalk should have access to BT's fiber lines through a "virtual link" or could deploy their own fiber via BT's underground ducts and overhead telegraph poles, Ofcom said. The regulator decided not to set pricing for access to the lines. Virgin Media had asked Ofcom to set fees, arguing that the absence of any pricing controls could undermine alternative network investment, according to the regulator. BT's charges will be subject to rules against anti-competitive pricing, Ofcom said.