The move follows a long-awaited review into the former monopoly by UK telecoms regulator Ofcom.

BT said it had agreed in principle to offer undertakings to Ofcom, which will be published on 30 June.

The agreement means BT will avoid being referred to the Competition Commission - a move which could have led to the break up of the company.

BT chairman Sir Christopher Bland said the deal with Ofcom struck "the right balance" for every player in the market.

"This has been a tough journey but it is important that we have regulation that encourages investment and innovation," he said.

More soon.