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Mobile and Fixed Telecoms Modernisation Charters and Protocols
24 March 2026
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department for Science, Innovation and Technology
At a Glance
Issue Summary
The statement addresses the modernisation of UK telecommunications infrastructure, focusing on the safe switch-off of 2G networks and the migration from analogue copper landlines to VoIP.
Action Requested
The Government has secured agreements with telecoms companies for smooth transitions through new Charters and Protocols. These include commitments to contact affected customers in advance, trial network closures, ensure emergency service access, and protect vulnerable users during modernisation processes. The government will continue to engage with local authorities and telecare providers.
Key Facts
- All four 3G networks have been safely switched off, with the last operator switching off in early 2026.
- Spectrum released from retiring 3G is being repurposed for improved 4G and 5G connectivity.
- Around 2 million customers use older 2G-only mobile phones.
- The remaining 2G-only users will receive messages to upgrade their devices in advance of the switch-off by each network in 2029, 2030, and 2033.
- As of December 2025, only 3.6 million PSTN lines remained operational from a peak of 35.2 million in 2000.
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