‘Outdated’ fax machines are to be phased out following a major rule change proposed by Ofcom

With fax machines THE plug is to be pulled.

To the horror of the Deadline Day footie bosses, they are handed over to history.

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Communications regulator Ofcom is proposing an amendment to the rules stating that fax facilities do not have to be provided by telecoms companies.

In 2003, when Ofcom introduced the Universal Service Obligation, fax machines were more common and far fewer people were connected via email and online messaging services.

A spokesman said: “Currently our universal telephone service commitment, which ensures a minimum set of telephone service is available at an affordable price to people across the UK, includes fax.

“However, the technology is becoming obsolete and the telephone network over which messages are transmitted is also being upgraded.

“Once this is completed, fax services cannot be guaranteed to work the same way.

“As a result, we propose changes to the rules.”

Fax machines became a staple of the office in the 1980s and 90s.

A 2020 freedom of information request revealed that 653 was still in use by police forces, fire departments and councils.

More than 800 are still in use by the NHS.

BT and Hull telecoms company KCOM are the providers responsible for universal service.

But BT said: “There is such limited demand for fax services now.”

Ofcom plans to issue a statement on changes early next year.