To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any steps his Department is taking to ensure that older people, particularly those living in rural areas, are not left without access to vital communication during power outages, given the move to digital phone lines which require power to operate.

Telecommunications policy is a reserved matter, with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) holding responsibility. My officials maintain regular contact with DSIT on all telecommunications matters.

The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is the traditional copper-based analogue landline, which is being upgraded to deliver voice services over an internet connection via Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology. This may also be referred to as ‘digital phone’ or ‘digital voice’.

Although the migration to VoIP is an industry led initiative, DSIT, along with Ofcom, the communications regulator, is working with the industry to ensure all sectors of the economy are protected and prepared. This includes regularly engaging with communications providers and tracking preparedness across all affected sectors.

Ofcom has issued guidance on how to prepare for the migration, and has rules to protect customers during power cuts, and to require phone companies to provide access to emergency calls at all times.

More information is available at: www.ofcom.org.uk/phones-and-broadband/landline-phones/future-of-landline-calls/