BT’s penalising of Welsh-speakers could be breach of human rights – First Minister
1 Ebrill 2009
BT’s penalising of Welsh-speakers could be breach of human rights – First Minister
AM asks Equality and Human Rights commission for investigation
Following a question today by Plaid Cymru Culture spokesperson Bethan Jenkins AM, the First Minister stated that there were grounds for further investigating BT’s policy of charging customers up to £32 a year more for receiving certain Welsh language services, and also suggested that BT could be breaking human rights legislation.
In today’s Western Mail (31/3/09), it was revealed that customers who pay their bills online pay £1.23 per month less, but whilst paper bills are available in both English and Welsh, the online billing service is only available in English. The company’s 1571 answer service is available for free in English but customers wanting the Welsh version must pay an additional £1.47 per month as receiving the service in Welsh is deemed an “enhanced package.”
Speaking from the Senedd today Bethan Jenkins AM said:
“I was shocked by the revelation made in today’s press that customers wishing to receive these services in Welsh are financially penalised. These are such basic services that it beggars belief and I’m glad that the First Minister has recognised the seriousness of this situation and was interested to hear that he believes there are grounds for further investigation as BT may be in breach of human rights legislation.
“I have asked the Equality and Human Rights Commission to investigate if BT’s actions are in breach of human rights legislation and very much look forward to hear their views. It is unacceptable that in 21st Century Wales Welsh-speakers are still treated as second-class citizens. BT’s behaviour is extremely unfair.”
Ms Jenkins also reasserted her belief that Welsh language legislation should be a matter for the National Assembly. Ms Jenkins added:
“This latest incident is yet another example of the need for the National Assembly to have legislative competence on the Welsh language. Only with such powers can the Assembly Government implement legislation that will give Welsh consumers equality and will enshrine minimum expectations in relation to Welsh language services.”
ENDS
Editor’s Notes
Western Mail article can be viewed here:
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/2009/03/31/bt-criticised-over-welsh-charges-91466-23269921/
