BT DIY ADSL ready for launch

NEWS BT Wholesale has announced the launch of its DIY ADSL service for 15 January 2002. The service has been plugged as a cheap option for consumers who can't afford the regular BT managed ADSL installations, yet analysts say the maximum saving is a mere £25. The rental of the service is £25 per month, including a £50 BT connection fee, plus the consumer must purchase all the gadgets and gizmos required to enable the connection. A spokesman from BT Wholesale said BT's hands are tied when it comes to reducing the costs even further. The spokesman said: "Regulation stops us from cross subsidising ADSL to kick start the market. Instead we have to come out with technical innovations like this. "If we used a lower rate, we'd be accused of pushing out local loop unbundling operators and cable companies. At the moment, an Oftel instigated investigation is looking at whether our prices are already too low."