BT agrees rescue takeover of TalkTalk after broadband group enters administration

BT approached TalkTalk's directors after a lengthy sale process failed, saying intervention was needed to avoid risks to vulnerable customers and critical infrastructure spanning health, defence, education and transport. Virgin Media criticised the deal as anti-competitive, warning it could entrench BT's market dominance.

The takeover now faces regulatory review, with Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy directing the Competition and Markets Authority to report back by 19 October. Until approval is granted, BT and TalkTalk continue operating separately. TalkTalk says customers need take no action for now.