UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 20 - F

20-F

(Mark One)

¨ 
oREGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

OR

x 
þANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended 31 March 2011

2013

OR

¨ 
oTRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

OR

¨ 
oSHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Date of event requiring this shell company report

For the transition period fromto

Commission File Number: 1-08819

BT Group plc

BT Group plc

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

Not Applicable 
Not ApplicableEngland and Wales
(Translation of Registrant’s name into
English)
 (Jurisdiction of incorporation or
organization)

English)organization)

BT Centre

81 Newgate Street, London, EC1A 7AJ

England

BT Centre
81 Newgate Street, London, EC1A 7AJ
England

(address of principal executive offices)

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class:    
Title of each class:
Name of each exchange on which registered:
American Depositary Shares  New York Stock Exchange
Ordinary shares of 5p each New York Stock Exchange*

*Not for trading, but only in connection with the registration of American Depositary Shares representing these shares, pursuant to the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act: None

Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the Annual Report:

8,151,227,029 Ordinary Shares, of 5p each

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

Yesþx    Noo¨

If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

Yeso¨    Noþx

Note — Checking the box above will not relieve any registrant required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 from their obligation under those Sections.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d)15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Yesþx    Noo¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Not ApplicableYeso     Noo

Yes  ¨    No  ¨

Not Applicable

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filerþAccelerated fileroNon-accelerated filero

Large accelerated filer  x                Accelerated filer  ¨                Non-accelerated filer  ¨

Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:

U.S. GAAP  ¨

    

International Financial Reporting Standards as issued

by the International Accounting Standards Board  x

  
International Financial Reporting
Standards
as issued by the International
U.S. GAAPoOther  ¨Accounting Standards BoardþOthero

If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.

Item 17o¨  Item 18o¨

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yeso¨    Noþx

(APPLICABLE ONLY TO ISSUERS INVOLVED IN BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDINGS DURING THE PAST FIVE YEARS)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed all documents and reports required to be filed by Sections 12, 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 subsequent to the distribution of securities under a plan confirmed by a court.

Yeso¨    Noo¨

Not Applicable

 


TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I

ITEM 1. IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS

ITEM 2. OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE

ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATION

ITEM 4. INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

ITEM 4A. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

ITEM 6. DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

ITEM 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 9. THE OFFER AND LISTING

ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

ITEM 11. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

ITEM 12. DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES

PART II

ITEM 13. DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES

ITEM 14. MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS

ITEM 15. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

ITEM 16.A16A. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT

ITEM 16.B16B. CODE OF ETHICS

ITEM 16.C16C. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

ITEM 16.E16E. PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS

ITEM 16.F CHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT

ITEM 16.G CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

PART III

ITEM 17. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

ITEM 19. EXHIBITS

SIGNATURES

EX-4.2
EX-4.3
EX-4.4
EX-4.5
EX-4.6
EX-4.7
EX-4.8
EX-4.9
EX-4.10
EX-4.11
EX-7.1
EX-12.1
EX-12.2
EX-13.1
EX-15.1
EX-15.2


All references in this Form 20-F to “us”, “we” or “thethe Company”, are to BT Group plc.

PART I

ITEM 1.IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS
ITEM 1. IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS

Not applicable

ITEM 2.OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE
ITEM 2. OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE

Not applicable

ITEM 3.KEY INFORMATION
ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATION

3.A Selected financial data

The information set forth under the headings:

“Financial highlights” on page 6;

“Financial summary” on page 2;
“Selected financial data” on page 158; and
“Information for shareholders — Exchange rates” on page 166

“Group financial performance — Group results” on page 43;

“Information for shareholders — Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements” on page 177

“Selected financial data” on page 173; and

“Information for shareholders — Exchange rates” on page 182

of the Annual Report & Form 20-F 20112013 as sent to shareholders and included as Exhibit 15.2 to this Form 20-F (“Annual Report 2011”2013”) is incorporated herein by reference.

3.B Capitalization and indebtedness

Not applicable

3.C Reasons for the offer and use of proceeds

Not applicable

3.D Risk factors

In common with all businesses, BT is affected by a number of risks and uncertainties, some of which are not within our control. Many of our risks are similar to those of comparable companies in terms of scale and operation. Economic uncertainty remains a major challenge to businesses globally and we remain conscious of those risks in all our business undertakings. Compliance in a global environment and supply chain are now recognised as principal risks along with those risks reported on last year which were: security and resilience; major contracts; pensions; growth in a competitive market and communications industry regulation.

This section highlights some of those particularsets out the principal risks and uncertainties affecting our businessus, but it is not intended to be an extensive analysis of all risk and uncertainty affecting our business.exhaustive. These risks have the potential to impact our business, revenues,revenue, profits, assets, liquidity or capital resources.

As in the prior year, the uncertainties in the global economy and capital resources adversely. credit markets continue to present challenges, both to our business and to others. These challenges drive a number of the risks that we face and we focus our efforts on predicting and mitigating them. The principal risks we described last year have evolved, and so has our response to them.

Our processes are designed to giveEnterprise Risk Management framework provides reasonable but(but cannot give absolute,absolute) assurance that thesignificant risks significant to the group are identified and addressed. There may be risks which are unknown or which are presently judged not to be significant but later prove to be significant.

Security and resilience

In keeping with other organisations that process and store data, we have a responsibility to many millions of customers, both business and consumer, to safeguard their electronic information and to maintain the continuity of services. This requires the highest levels of operational security and resilience, which can be threatened at any time by incidents such as malicious cyber-attacks, theft of copper cable and equipment, vandalism, sabotage, extreme weather, component overload, loss of power and human error. The principal risksvolume of traffic through our systems and uncertainties should be considerednetworks is increasing, and customer tolerance of interruptions reduces as the world becomes ever more dependent on information technology.

Changes over the last year

Concerted efforts to deter cable theft, supported by legislative changes and the well publicised arrest and prosecution of thieves, are beginning to reduce the number of service interruptions in conjunctionthe network. Theft of equipment from our premises has also fallen significantly. However, we are detecting more cyber-attacks aimed at stealing data or disrupting our own and our customers’ websites.

We have strengthened our defences against these cyber-attacks and now routinely cope with attacks that a few years ago would have caused considerable risk of data loss. Our segregation and encryption of data has increased. In further

recognition of the importance of people and behaviours in managing this risk, a campaign to raise staff and supplier awareness of cyber threats is proceeding in response to the increasing sophistication of attacks. We have also refreshed our data protection governance with the forward-looking statements for, and the cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements on page 162appointment of the Annual Report 2011.

Security and resilience
BT is dependent on the secure operation and resilience of its information systems, networks and data. The scalea Chief Privacy Officer.

We are upgrading much of our businessequipment to improve reliability, increase capacity and global nature of our operations means we are required to manage significant volumes of personalreduce energy consumption. Severe flooding across the UK in the year caused several service outages that demanded urgent action and commercially sensitive information.

BT stores and transmits data for its own purposes and on behalf of customers, all of which needsresources to be safeguarded from potential exposure, loss or corruption, and therefore receives a high level of management attention and security measures.
Certain of our customers require specific, highly sophisticated security provisioning which we are contractually obliged to meet and through our continuing success in meeting those requirements we are able to differentiate our offerings from those of our competitors.
diverted.


Impact
Failure or interruption of data transfer could have a significant adverse effect on the business.

A breach of our security, or compromise of data and/or resilience affecting BT’s ownour operations, or those of our customers, could lead to an extended interruption to network services andor even affect national infrastructure. Such failure may lead to a loss of customer confidence, termination of contracts, loss of revenue, and reduced cash resources.generation through penalties and unplanned costs of restoration and improvement. Additional reputational damage and financial loss may arise from a breach involving a legal or contractual failing such as breaching data protection or handling requirements.

Failure or interruption of data transfer could also have a significant adverse effect on our business.

Major contracts

We have a number of complex and high valuehigh-value national and multinational contracts with certain customers. The profitability of, and revenue arising from, and the profitability of these contracts isare subject to a number of factors including: variation in cost andcost; achievement of cost reductions anticipated in the contract pricing, both in terms of scale and time; delays in the delivery or achievingachievement of agreed milestones owing to factors either within or outside of our control; changes in customers’ requirements, budgets, strategies or businesses; and the performance of our suppliers; and other factors.suppliers. Any of these factors could make a contract less profitable or even loss making.

The degree of risk generally varies generally in proportion to the scope and life of the contract and is typically higher in the early transitional and transformational stages of the contract. Some customer contracts require significant investment in the early stages, which is expected to be recovered over the life of the contract. Major contracts often involve the implementation of new systems and communications networks, transformation of legacy networks and the development of new technologies. The recoverability of these upfront costs may be adversely impacted by delays or failure to meet milestones. Substantial performance risk exists in these contracts.

Changes over the last year

The difficult economic and market conditions, particularly in Europe, have increased financial and operational pressures on our customers and have made the environment even more competitive. With our investment and expansion into high growth regions, the landscape of our risks and opportunities naturally changes as we must deal with rapidly evolving geo-political risks and different trading environments and business practices. Our control and governance framework has been extended to include contracts between BT and some or all elementsUK local authorities seeking to extend the reach of performance depend upon successful completionfibre broadband in their regions.

For larger contracts, we have recently expanded the scope of independent reviews to critical stages of the transition, development, transformationcontract lifecycle to help identify any key issues, risks and deployment phases.

actions which need to be monitored.

Impact

Failure to manage and meet our commitments under these contracts, as well as changes in customers’ requirements, budgets, strategies or businesses, may lead to a reduction in our expected future revenue, profitability and cash generation. Unexpectedly high costs associated with the delivery of contracts could also negatively impact profitability. We may lose significant revenuesrevenue due to the merger or acquisition of customers, changes to customer strategy, business failure or contract termination.termination and contracts may become loss-making. Failure to replace the revenue and earnings thereby lost from such customers willcould lead to an overall reduction in group revenue, profitability and cash flow.

Pensions

We have a significant funding obligation in relation to aour defined benefit pension scheme. Decliningschemes. Low investment returns, high inflation, longer life expectancy and regulatory changes may result in the cost of funding BT’s main defined benefit pension scheme, the BT Pension Scheme (BTPS), becoming a significant burden on our financial resources. The

Changes over the last year

Following the conclusion of the 30 June 2011 triennial funding valuation of the BTPS at 31 December 2008 and associated recovery plan was agreed with the BTPS Trustee in February 2010. Under this prudent funding valuation basis the deficit was £9bn and a 17-year recovery plan was agreed. Details ofMay 2012, the valuation assumptions and recovery plan are set out in note 23documentation was submitted to the financial statements.

The valuation and the recovery plan are under review by the Pensions Regulator whose initial view was that they had substantial concerns with certain features of the agreement. Their review is now on hold and is not expected to recommence until the outcome of thefor their review. The final Court decision including any potential appeals, is known onin the Crown Guarantee case, after any appeals, will give greater clarity as to the extent to which the liabilities of the BTPS are covered by a Crown Guarantee. This will inform the Pensions Regulator’s next steps with regard to the valuation of the Scheme. Accordingly, as matters stand, it is uncertain as to when they will conclude their review.

Government bond yields have fallen since the valuation at 30 June 2011, with real yields being negative at times. This uncertaintyhas been caused by a number of factors, including the Bank of England’s Quantitative Easing programme. If the fall in yields is outside of our control. However, we do not expectmaintained and reflected in the next funding valuation, due as at 30 June 2014, this to be beforewould increase the completionvalue of the next triennialBTPS liabilities.

The European Commission is reviewing the current Directive for pensions and we responded to a relevant consultation during the year. The Commission’s aim is to issue new draft legislation in summer 2013. Depending on its scope, there is potential for any legislative change to have an impact on BT’s funding valuation as at 31 December 2011. As is usual, BT andliabilities in the Trusteefuture. We will engage with the Pensions Regulator regarding the 2011 valuation.

continue to monitor developments in this area.


Impact

An increase in the pension deficit and associated funding requirements wouldmay have a direct adversean impact on the future cash resourceslevel of deficit payments we are required to make into the group.scheme. Indirectly it may also have an adverse impact on the group’sour share price and credit rating. AAny deterioration in theour credit rating would increase the group’sour cost of borrowing and may limit the availability or flexibility of future funding, thereby affecting theour ability of the business to invest, pay dividends or repay debt as it matures.

Growth in a competitive market

We operate in markets which are characterised byby: high levels of competition including: regulatory intervention on promotingchange; strong competition; declining prices; technology substitution; market and service convergence; customer churn; declining rates of market growth;revenues; new competitors; and emerging competitors with non replicable sources of competitive advantage.

regulatory intervention to promote competition and reduce wholesale prices.

A significant proportion of our revenue and profit areis generated in the UK telecommunications markets which are experiencing limitedwhere the overall telecoms market has been in decline in real terms, despite strong volume growth in revenue terms and in many cases are highly competitive.new services. Revenue from our fixed line calls and lines services to consumers and businesses havehas historically been in decline.decline but new broadband and connectivity markets are growing. Our ability to deliver profitable revenue growth in a responsible and sustainable manner depends on us delivering on our strategic priorities.

Changes over the last year

The level of risk facing our business increased as the economic situation in the UK and other key markets deteriorated in the year. Depressed business activity together with lower disposable incomes continues to be a major barrier to growing revenues, particularly among business customers.

Regulatory decisions made during the year also contributed adversely to our risk profile, revenue and profits. These decisions failed to address imbalances in the competitive playing field. This means that some of our competitors in the consumer space benefit from limited regulation on their core business combined with extensive sector-specific regulation being applied to our UK fixed-line business.

A number of competitor-related developments have contributed to the risk increasing. These include, but are not limited to: the acquisition of Cable & Wireless Worldwide by Vodafone; the decision by Vodafone and O2 to establish a joint venture to consolidate existing network infrastructure and local transmission; the agreement which brought forward the timetable for 4G mobile services being launched in the UK; and increased competitive activity around over-the-top video on demand services in the UK.

Impact

Failure to achieve profitable revenue growth throughfrom our strategic priorities may lead to a continued decline in revenue, erosion of our competitive position and might also lead to a reduction in future profitability, cash flow and to a diminution in shareholder value.

Communications industry regulation
Some of our activities continue to be subjected to significant price and other regulatory controls which may affect our market share, competitive position, future profitability and cash resources. Many of our wholesale fixed network activitiesflow in the future.

Communications industry regulation

Our activities across all the jurisdictions in which we operate can be impacted by regulation. Regulatory requirements and constraints can directly impact our ability to compete effectively and earn revenues.

In the UK where, following detailed market analysis, we are subjectfound to have significant market power, Ofcom requires us to provide wholesale services at regulated prices. It can also require us to make retrospective repayments to other CPs where we are found to have set prices outside regulatory controls. The controls regulate, among other things,requirements, and can impose fines on us for non-compliance with the prices weregulatory rules, including competition law.

Outside the UK, general licensing requirements can charge for many of our services andrestrict the extent to which we can enter markets and compete. Regulation will also define the terms on which we can purchase key wholesale services from others.

In the UK, risks can come from, for example, periodic market reviews which might introduce tighter regulatory constraints from new charge controls or from CPs disputing or complaining about our pricing, products or services. Outside the UK, regulators can investigate our licensing requirements and whether our services comply with their rules.

Changes over the last year

Over the last year, we have seen regulatory activity in a number of areas. A number of these rulings have resulted in a negative impact either through retrospective price reductions or on our future pricing.

Impact

Risks from regulation are most significant in the UK.

Around £5.8bn of our revenue (of which £3.3bn is to provide servicesdownstream parts of BT) is from wholesale markets where we have been found to other communications providers (CPs). In recent years the effecthold significant market power and which are currently subject to regulatory charge controls. Most of these controls has requiredrequire us to reduce our prices althoughannually to reflect expected reductions in some recent cases,unit costs through efficiency savings. Controls are usually set for three years and will therefore constrain revenues during that period.

Other CPs can ask Ofcom to resolve disputes with us about current or historic prices. Where Ofcom finds that these prices are, or have been, allowed to increase in real terms.

Regulatory authoritiesset at levels above those required under the regulatory framework, we may increase the severity of the price controls, extend the services to which controls apply or extend the services which we provide to other CPs. These controls may adversely affect our market share, our ability to compete and our future profitability and cash resources. Wholesale customers may also raise disputes with Ofcom, seeking lower prices on wholesale services which are not subject to direct price control.
Impact
In recent years, changes in price controls have required us to reduce our prices and in some instancesneed to make retrospective payments in respect of retrospective price adjustments. Additional or more substantial regulatory price reductions could constrain our revenue growth. Regulatory actions may also indirectly affect us. For example, Ofcom has reduced the mobile termination rates that mobile network operators can charge to terminate calls on their network. There will be a stepped reduction in prices over four years starting from April 2011. This regulatory action will have a significant impact on future transit revenues in the UK and Europe.
CPs.

We may from time-to-time be required to provide new services, or existing services on improved terms, to wholesale customers on a non-discriminatory basis, increasingbasis. This could increase our costscosts.

Regulation outside the UK can impact our revenue by restricting our ability to compete through overly-restrictive licensing requirements or ineffective regulation of access to other CP networks.

Business integrity and increasing retail competition. Disputes may result either in reduced revenue or increased costs going forward. ethics

We may also be requiredare committed to make retrospective paymentsmaintaining high standards of ethical behaviour, and have a zero tolerance approach to CPs if it is ruled that past charging mechanisms webribery and corruption. We have applied have overcharged CPs. Appeals may change Ofcom’s decisions, which had originally been concluded in our favour.


Compliance in a global environment
Some of the countries where we operate have increased their enforcement of local laws and therefore the potential impact of failing to comply with a wide range of local and international legislative requirements has increased significantly. Legislation isanti-corruption and bribery laws. In particular the UK Bribery Act and US Foreign and Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) provide comprehensive anti-bribery legislation. Both have extraterritorial reach and thereby cover our global operations. As we expand internationally, we are increasingly multi jurisdictionaloperating in countries identified as having a higher risk of bribery and the potential penalties, including fines, thatcorruption.

We also have been levied against a number of organisations, have grown in frequency and value.

Legalto ensure compliance obligations include antitrust and anticorruption legislation, competition law, data privacy,with trade sanctions, and import and export controls, taxation and telecommunications regulatory requirements. controls.

Changes over the last year

The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has produced revised guidance on the UK Bribery Act which comes into effectAct. The SFO has indicated it will now focus on its role as an investigator and prosecutor of serious and/or complex fraud and where there is sufficient evidence and it is in July 2011 with increased penalties for non-compliant businesses introduces the offencepublic interest, prosecutions rather than civil settlements will now be pursued, even where companies have self-reported. This represents a change to its previous stance where self-reporting may have led to more lenient treatment. It has further confirmed that it considers facilitation payments to be bribes.

The US Department of failingJustice and Securities and Exchange Commission have also produced guidance on the FCPA giving information about the US government’s approach to prevent bribery. WithFCPA enforcement.

In addition, sanctions regulations in Europe and the breadth of BT’s operations and complex commercial relationships we must ensure that we and our business partners are compliant as a continuing priority.

US have been extended.

Impact

Failure to comply with legal requirements can have a significant impact and lead to a loss of reputation and damage to our brand with investors, regulators and customers. Non-compliance with legislation, including requirements to maintain adequate systems and controls, may also lead to prosecution, penalties and in some cases could lead to litigation and loss of revenues and loss of profits.

Failure by our employees, suppliers or agents to comply with anti-briberyanti-corruption and corruptionbribery and sanctions legislation (including the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and the UK Bribery Act), or any failure in our policies and procedures to monitor and prevent non-compliance, anywhere in the world, could result in substantial penalties, criminal prosecution and significant damage to our reputation.

This could in turn impact our future revenue and cash flow, the extent of which would depend on the nature of the breach, the legislation concerned and any associated penalties. Allegations of corruption or bribery or violation of sanctions regulations could also lead to reputation and brand damage with investors, regulators and customers.

Supply chain

We are dependent upon

The integrity and continuity of our supply chain foris critical to our operations. Our aim is to harness the delivery of goodscapability, diversity and services on time, to cost and specification. A number of factors, including the continuing economic uncertainty have contributed to a heighteninginnovation of the risk of this reliance. Failure of any ofglobal supply market to add value to our critical suppliers to meet agreed deliverables could adversely impact our customer service, product launch, business critical systems updates, revenues or cost efficiency.

BT isand customers. We are committed to ensuring that all dealings with suppliers, from selection and consultation to contracting and payment, are conducted in accordance with our trading and ethical policies.
Our supply chain is truly global and we aim

The failure of a critical third-party supplier to harness the capability, diversity and innovation of our supply market to add valuemeet its obligations could cause significant harm to our business and customers. the BT brand, as well as potentially impact our cost transformation and efficiency plans.

Changes over the last year

Many suppliers are beingcontinue to be impacted by the global economic downturn and the challenges of globalisation. This is introducing further risk in our supply chain which includes, but is not limited to:as a result we have seen an increase in supplier insolvency; lackthe number of supplier resilience following a disaster;suppliers suffering from financial distress. The downturn has also increased the risk of suppliers applying less focus on key areas such as business continuity management or corporate and social responsibility risks in our extended supply chain; and security risks relatingan effort to data protection.

reduce their costs.

Impact

Our suppliers could be adversely affected by economic conditions which

Whilst the size of the impact from a supplier failure can vary, all supplier failures typically result in turn couldan increased cost to our business and have the potential to negatively impact their abilitythe service we provide to meet their obligationscustomers. In many cases the cost associated with supplier failure is significant, particularly if it then results in us having to us or, in the extreme, cause them to fail.change technology. If we are unable to contract with an alternative supplier, our customer commitments could also be compromised, possibly leading to contractual breach, loss of revenue, penalties or increased costs.

A failure in our supply chain to meet legal obligations or ethical expectations could adversely impact our reputation or possibly lead to censure, legal action and financial loss.

ITEM 4.INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY
ITEM 4. INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

4.A History and development of the company

The information set forth under the headings:

“Our business and strategy — Who we are” on page 10;
“Our business and strategy — What we do” on page 10;
“Information for shareholders — Background” on page 163;

“Our progress against our strategic priorities” on page 7;

2

“How we deliver our strategy” on page 31;


“Information for shareholders — Background” on page 178;

“Group financial performance — Capital expenditure” on page 50; and

“Financial position and resources — Acquisitions and disposals” on page 56; and
“Liquidity — Net capital expenditure” on page 51

“Group financial performance — Capital management and funding policy” on page 48

of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

4.B Business overview

The information set forth under the headings:

“How we are organised” on page 31;

“Our business and strategy” on page 10;
“Our markets and customers” on page 14;
“Our resources” on page 19;
“Our lines of business” on page 23;
“Our corporate responsibility” on page 36;
“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Segment information” on page 105;
“Operational statistics” on page 161; and
“Information for shareholders — Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements” on page 162

“Our customers and markets” on page 36;

“Regulation” on page 38;

“Our strategy” on page 13;

“Our business model” on page 17;

“Our strategic priorities” on page 14;

“How we measure our progress” on page 22;

“Our assets and resources” on page 20;

“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Segment information” on page 116;

“Operational statistics” on page 176;

“Information for shareholders — Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements” on page 177; and

“Information for shareholders — Further note on certain activities” on page 188

of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

4.C Organizational structure

The information set forth under the headings:

“Our business model” on page 17;

“Our business — Our business model” on page 5; and
“Subsidiary undertakings and associate” on page 155

“How we are organised” on page 31; and

“Subsidiary undertakings” on page 167

of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

4.D Property, plants and equipment

The information set forth under the headings:

“Our assets and resources — Properties” on page 20;

The information set forth under the headings:

“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Property, plant and equipment” on page 128; and

“Our resources — Property portfolio” on page 22;
“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Property, plant and equipment” on page 121; and
“Financial statistics” on page 160

“Financial statistics” on page 175

of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 4A.UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
ITEM 4A. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

As far as the Company is aware, there are no unresolved written comments from the SEC staff regarding its periodic reports under the Exchange Act received more than 180 days before March 31, 2011.

3

2013.


ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

ITEM 5.OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS
5.A Operating results

The information set forth under the headings:

“Performance” on page 41; and

“Our business and strategy” on page 10;
“Our lines of business” on page 23;
“Financial review” on page 44; and
“Information for shareholders — Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements” on page 162

“Information for shareholders — Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements” on page 177

of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

5.B Liquidity and capital resources

The information set forth under the headings:

“Performance” on page 41;

“Financial review” on page 44;
“Information for shareholders — Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements” on page 162;
“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Loans and other borrowings” on page 126;
“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Financial instruments and risk management” on page 139; and
“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Financial commitments and contingent liabilities” on page 150

“Information for shareholders — Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements” on page 177;

“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Loans and other borrowings” on page 146;

“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Financial instruments and risk management” on page 151; and

“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Financial commitments and contingent liabilities” on page 162

of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

5.C Research and development, patents and licenses

The information set forth under the headings:

“Our assets and resources — Innovation” on page 21; and

“Our resources — Global research capability” on page 21; and
“Financial statistics” on page 160

“Financial statistics” on page 175

of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

5.D Trend information

The information set forth under the headings:

“Financial review” on page 44;
“Quarterly analysis of revenue and profit” on page 157;
“Selected financial data” on page 158; and
“Information for shareholders — Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements” on page 162

“Performance” on page 41;

4

“Selected financial data” on page 173; and


“Information for shareholders — Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements” on page 177

of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

5.E Off-balance sheet arrangements

The information set forth under the heading “Financial review“Group financial performanceFunding and capital managementOther information — Off-balance sheet arrangements” on page 5452 of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

5.F Tabular disclosure of contractual obligations

The information set forth under the heading “Financial review“Group financial performanceFunding and capital managementOther information — Contractual obligations and commitments” on page 5452 of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 6.DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES
ITEM 6. DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

6.A Directors and senior management

The information set forth under the heading “Board of directors and Operating Committee”Directors” on page 6065 of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

6.B Compensation

The information set forth under the headings:

“Reports of the Board Committees — Report on Directors’ Remuneration” on page 77;

“Report on directors’ remuneration” on page 69;
“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Share-based payments” on page 111; and
“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Retirement benefit plans” on page 129

“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Retirement benefit plans” on page 132; and

“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Share-based payments” on page 142

of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

6.C Board practices

The information set forth under the headings:

“Board of Directors” on page 65; and

“Board of directors and Operating Committee” on page 60;
“The Board” on page 62; and
“Report on directors’ remuneration” on page 69

“Reports of the Board Committees — Report on Directors’ Remuneration” on page 77

of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

6.D Employees

The information set forth under the headings:

“Our resources” on page 19;
“Financial review — Financial performance — Operating costs” on page 48; and
“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Employees” on page 110

“Our people” on page 18;

5

“Group financial performance — Income statement — Operating costs” on page 44; and


“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Employees” on page 120

of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

6.E Share ownership

The information set forth under the headings:

“Reports of the Board Committees — Report on Directors’ Remuneration” on page 77; and

“Report on directors’ remuneration” on page 69; and
“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Share-based payments” on page 111

“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Share-based payments” on page 142

of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 7.MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
ITEM 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

7.A Major shareholders

The information set forth under the headings:

“Shareholders and Annual General Meeting — Substantial shareholdings” on page 97; and

“Shareholders and Annual General Meeting — Substantial shareholdings” on page 86; and
“Information for shareholders — Analysis of shareholdings at 31 March 2011” on page 164

“Information for shareholders — Analysis of shareholdings at 31 March 2013” on page 179

of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

7.B Related party transactions

The information set forth under the headings:

“Directors’ information — Interest of management in certain transactions” on page 94; and

“Directors’ information — Interest of management in certain transactions” on page 82;
“Report on directors’ remuneration” on page 69; and
“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Related party transactions” on page 110

“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Related party transactions” on page 162

of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

7.C Interests of experts and counsel

Not applicable

ITEM 8.FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

8.A Consolidated statements and other financial information

See Item 18 below

below.

In addition, the information set forth under the headings:

“Financial position and resources — Legal proceedings” on page 56;
“Financial performance — Dividends” on page 50;
“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Financial commitments and contingent liabilities” on page 150;

“Group financial performance — Other information — Legal proceedings” on page 52;

6

“Group financial performance — Income statement — Dividends” on page 46;


“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Financial commitments and contingent liabilities” on page 162;

“Information for shareholders — Dividends” on page 180; and

“Information for shareholders — Dividends” on page 164; and
“Information for shareholders — Articles of Association (‘Articles’) — Dividends” on page 167

“Information for shareholders — Articles of Association (Articles) — Dividends” on page 183

of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

8.B Significant changes

The information set forth under the heading “Funding and capital management“Directors’ information — Going concern” on page 5493 of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 9.THE OFFER AND LISTING
ITEM 9. THE OFFER AND LISTING

9.A Offer and listing details

The information set forth under the heading “Information for shareholders — Stock exchange listings — Share and ADS prices” on page 163178 of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

9.B Plan of distribution

Not applicable

9.C Markets

The information set forth under the heading “Information for shareholders — Stock exchange listings” on page 163178 of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

9.D Selling shareholders

Not applicable

9.E Dilution

Not applicable

9.F Expenses of the issue

Not applicable

ITEM 10.ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

10.A Share capital

Not applicable

10.B Memorandum and articles of association

The information set forth under the heading “Information for shareholders — Articles of Association (‘Articles’)(Articles)” on page 167183 of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

10.C Material contracts

The information set forth under the heading “Information for shareholders — Material contracts” on page 170186 of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

7


10.D Exchange controls

The information set forth under the heading “Information for shareholders — Limitations affecting security holders” on page 172189 of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

10.E Taxation

The information set forth under the heading “Information for shareholders — Taxation (US Holders)” on page 170186 of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

10.F Dividends and paying agents

Not applicable

10.G Statement by experts

Not applicable

10.H Documents on display

The information set forth under the heading “Information for shareholders — Documents on display” on page 172189 of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

10.I Subsidiary information

Not applicable

ITEM 11.QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
ITEM 11. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

The information set forth under the headings:

“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Significant accounting policies — Financial instruments” on page 114; and

“Consolidated financial statements — Accounting policies — Financial instruments” on page 95; and
“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Financial instruments and risk management” on page 139

“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Financial instruments and risk management” on page 151

of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 12.DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES
ITEM 12. DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES

12.D American Depositary Shares

During the 2010/112013 financial year, the Company received direct and indirect payments from the Depositary of USD604,412.75USD 498,009.08 which included the annual NYSE listing fee, investor relations expenses and other costs relating to the ADR program.

The Depositary also waived fees of USD215,000USD 215,000 for administering the ADR program.

The following table sets out the fees charged to ADR holders:

Category (as defined by SEC)

  

Depositary Actions

  
Category
(as defined by SEC)Depositary Actions

Associated Fee

(a) Depositing
or substituting the
underlying shares
  

Each person to whom ADRs are issued against deposits of Shares, including deposits and issuances in respect of:

   Share distributions, stock split, rights, merger

   Exchange of securities or any other transaction or event or other distribution affecting the ADSs or the Deposited Securities

  USD 5.00 for each 100 ADSs (or portion thereof) evidenced by the new ADRs delivered
(b) Receiving or
distributing
dividends
  Distribution of dividends  USD 0.02 or less per ADS
(c) Selling or
exercising rights
  Distribution or sale of securities, the fee being in an amount equal to the fee for the execution and delivery of ADSs which would have been charged as a result of the deposit of such securities  USD 5.00 for each 100 ADSs (or portion thereof)

Category (as defined by SEC)

  

Depositary Actions

  

Associated Fee

(d) Withdrawing an
underlying security
  Acceptance of ADRs surrendered for withdrawal of deposited securities  USD 5.00 for each 100 ADSs (or portion thereof) evidenced by the ADRs surrendered
(e) Transferring,
splitting or
grouping receipts
  Transfers, combining or grouping of depositary receipts  USD 2.50 per ADS
(f) General
depositary
services,
particularly those
charged on an
annual basis
  

   Other services performed by the depositary in administering the ADRs

   Provide information about the depositary’s right, if any, to collect fees and charges by offsetting them against dividends received and deposited securities

  USD 0.02 per ADS (or portion thereof) not more than once each calendar year and payable at the sole discretion of the depositary by billing Holders or by deducting such charge from one or more cash dividends or other cashcase distributions
(g) Expenses of the depositary  

Expenses incurred on behalf of Holders in connection with

   Compliance with foreign exchange control regulations or any law or regulation relating to foreign investment

   The depositary’s or its custodian’s compliance with applicable law, rule or regulation

   Stock transfer or other taxes and other governmental charges

   Cable, telex, facsimile transmission/delivery

   Expenses of the depositary in connection with the conversion of foreign currency into U.S. dollars (which are paid out of such foreign currency)

   Any other charge payable by depositary or its agents

  Expenses payable at the sole discretion of the depositary by billing Holders or by deducting charges from one or more cash dividends or other cash distributions.distributions

8


PART II

ITEM 13.DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES
ITEM 13. DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES

Not applicable

ITEM 14.MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS
ITEM 14. MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS

Not applicable

ITEM 15.CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
ITEM 15. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

The information set forth under the headings:

“Business policies — US Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002” on page 85;
“Business policies — Disclosure controls and procedures” on page 85; and
“Business policies — Internal control over financial reporting” on page 85
of the Annual Report 2011 is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 16.AAUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT
          The information set forth under the heading “Business policies

“General Information — US Regulation — US Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002” on page 85 94;

“General Information — US Regulation — Disclosure controls and procedures” on page 95;

“General Information — US Regulation — Internal control over financial reporting” on page 95; and

“Report of the independent auditors — Consolidated financial statements — United States opinion” on page 101

of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 16.BCODE OF ETHICS
ITEM 16.A AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT

The information set forth under the heading “Business policies“General Information — US Regulation — US Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002” on page 8594 of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 16.CPRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
ITEM 16.B CODE OF ETHICS

The information set forth under the heading “General Information — US Regulation — US Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002” on page 94 of the Annual Report 2013 is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 16.C PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

16.C(a)Audit Fees

The information set forth in the table under the heading “Audit services” in “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Audit, audit related and other non-audit services” on page 114120 of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

16.C(b)Audit-Related Fees

The information set forth in the table under the heading “Non-audit services — The audit of the company’s subsidiaries pursuant to legislation” in “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Audit and non-audit services” on page 114 of the Annual Report 2011 is incorporated herein by reference.

16.C(c)Tax Fees
          The information set forth in the table under the heading “Non-audit services — Tax“Audit related assurance services” in “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Audit, audit related and other non-audit services” on page 114120 of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.
16.C(d)

16.C(c)All OtherTax Fees

The information set forth in the table under the headings “Non-audit“Other non-audit services — Other services pursuant to legislation”, “Non-auditTaxation compliance services” and “Other non-audit services — Services relatingTaxation advisory services” in “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to corporate finance transactions”the consolidated financial statements — Audit, audit related and “Non-auditother non-audit services” on page 120 of the Annual Report 2013 is incorporated herein by reference.

16.C(d)All Other Fees

The information set forth in the table under the headings “Other non-audit services — All other assurance services” and “Other non-audit services — All other services” in “Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Audit, audit related and other non-audit services” on page 114120 of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

16.C(e)

The information set forth under the headings:

“Reports of the Board Committees — Audit & Risk Committee Chairman’s report” on page 71; and

“Report of the Audit & Risk Committee” on page 65; and
“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Audit and non-audit services” on page 114

“Consolidated financial statements — Notes to the consolidated financial statements — Audit, audit related and other non-audit services” on page 120

of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

16.C(f)

Not applicable

ITEM 16.EPURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS
Not applicable
ITEM 16.FCHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT
Not applicable
ITEM 16.GCORPORATE GOVERNANCE
ITEM 16.E PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS

The information set forth under the heading “The Board“Information for shareholders — Share buyback” on page 180 of the Annual Report 2013 is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 16.F CHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT

Not applicable

ITEM 16.G CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

The information set forth under the heading “General Information — US Regulation — New York Stock Exchange” on page 6494 of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

9


PART III

ITEM 17.FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
ITEM 17. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Not applicable

ITEM 18.FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The financial information concerning the Company set forth under the headings:

“Report of the independent auditors — Consolidated financial statements — United States opinion” on page 101; and

“Report of the independent auditors — Consolidated financial statements — United States opinion” on page 90;
“Consolidated financial statements” on page 91; and
“Quarterly analysis of revenue and profit” on page 157

“Consolidated financial statements” on page 102

of the Annual Report 20112013 is incorporated herein by reference.

10


ITEM 19. EXHIBITS

ITEM 19.EXHIBITS
The following exhibits are filed as part of this annual report:

1.1  Articles of Association of the Company, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.1 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F dated May 26, 2010
4.1  Letter of appointment of Tony Ballfor Karen Richardson as a non-executive director, dated June 16, 2009,17 October 2011, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.54.11 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F dated May 26, 201024, 2012
4.2  
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
4.7
4.8
4.9 dated 17 October 2011, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.12 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F dated May 24, 2012
7.1  
4.10
4.11
7.1
8.1  Significant subsidiaries as of March 31, 2011,2013, see “Subsidiary undertakings and associate”undertakings” on page 155167 of the Company’s Annual Report & Form 20-F included as Exhibit 15.2
12.1  
12.1
12.2  
12.2
13.1  
13.1
15.1  
15.1
15.2*  
15.2*

*Certain of the information included within Exhibit 15.2, which is provided pursuant to Rule 12b-23(a)(3) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is incorporated by reference in this Form 20-F, as specified elsewhere in this Form 20-F. With the exception of the items and pages so specified, the Annual Report & Form 20-F is not deemed to be filed as part of this Form 20-F.

11


SIGNATURES

SIGNATURES
The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.

 BT Group plc
 
BT Group plc

/s/ Tony Chanmugam

 Name: Tony Chanmugam
 Title:   Group Finance Director

Date: May 27, 2011

23, 2013

 

17