The three leading trade associations for the private security, fire and telecare services industries have signed the memorandum following discussions on the developments surrounding the telecommunication changes to both landline networks and mobile networks across the UK. This has highlighted common concerns across the three industries and highlighted the advantages of information exchange in these areas to members of each participating organisation.

In signing the memorandum, the three parties have agreed to cooperate in seeking a resolution to outstanding issues with the ultimate aim of ensuring that members’ and their customers’ best interests are represented and as far as possible, protected from current and forthcoming changes to UK telecommunications networks.

A strategic committee will be formed to identify common network problems affecting fire, safety and security alarm systems that require a single position from all three organisations. Where specific issues need to be investigated, other ad-hoc committees may also be set up.

The BSIA, FIA and TSA will endeavour to formulate a joint, single voice approach to external stakeholders such as Ofcom, BT Openreach and individual communications providers to ensure consistency of communications and to put the weight of the collective membership behind those communications.

The memorandum was signed by James Kelly, BSIA, Ian Moore, FIA and Alyson Scurfield, TSA.

James Kelly, Chief Executive of the BSIA, commented: “The signing of this memorandum of understanding is an important step forward in protecting our members and their customers from the ongoing changes to the telecommunications networks. A strong, unified voice between the BSIA and our colleagues from the FIA and TSA will enable us to have a greater impact in ensuring the best interests of our industry.”

TSA Chief Executive, Alyson Scurfield, added: “With the ever-changing telecommunication infrastructure, it is important that TSA creates strong allegiances with like-minded organisations to add weight to lobbying activity in this area. TSA is confident that this collaboration will have mutual benefits for our membership and the outcomes will provide support to service users with communications through combined discussions with Ofcom and network providers.”

Chief Executive of the FIA, Ian Moore, said: “The FIA is pleased to sign this memorandum of understanding with the BSIA and TSA. This will enable us to provide a consistent response to the common concerns that our industries share regarding the changes to landline and mobile networks in the UK. Through this joined-up approach, I am confident that the best interests of our collective industries will be best represented.”