I've written directly to Ben Verwaayen, Chief Executive of BT Group plc. I wonder if I get a response - anyone want a side bet?? I've also written to my MP. She has also written to Ben Verwaayen on my befalf! I recently found the following article on a website (http://www.telecoms.com): 'UK incumbent British Telecom has been accused of "financial blackmail" by Members of Parliament (MPs) for charges on customers who do not pay their telephone bills by direct debit. 35 MPs have signed a Commons motion regarding the levy which David Hamilton, Labour MP for Midlothian, is leading." I suggest writing to your local MP - asking them to sign the Commons motion, and asking their advice about what steps to take next... And finally - on tonight's One Show (31/08/07), the worst company for getting hold of a real person to talk to on the phone was.... (can you guess).... yep, BT! It took 16 minutes of automated menu's & being on hold before the researcher got a real person to talk to....

Janet-M - I've had exactly the same email from them. I also pay on-time and found the line "If you still decide not to pay the payment processing fee, we will apply our standard debt collection process." threatening! buzby - I wonder how much the line rental would be for a business line would be to my home address? I might make a few enquiries....

A family member has had their £4.50 refunded by BT - on the grounds that he hasn't been notified, in writing, of the change in Terms & Conditions. I however, have tried the same approach & had the reply: "With regards to your e-mail, I do apologise for the inconvenience that unfortunately we would not be able to refund £4.50. However, if you set up direct debit on your account, this amount would be credited on your next bill." Also, I have noticed that my business bill from BT doesn't include an additional charge for paying by cheque... why is this??

If BT insist on these charges, would it be right to make them earn their money?? For example, how about paying a £80 bill with 80 £1 cheques?? It would be a pain to do, but very satisfying IMO!!