They're a private company, but they are still a monopoly with a universal service obligation and highly regulated by Ofcom. So while we (the British public) mi

They're a private company, but they are still a monopoly with a universal service obligation and highly regulated by Ofcom. So while we (the British public) might not have to pay for their mistakes with our taxes - though worth noting that, not unlike banks, the Government would have no choice but to bail BT out if it was ever needed - any money they lose from this they regain from their customers, which are the public. And the monopoly ensures most people will pay.