A nationwide fault that led to 999 emergency calls not connecting has led to a full investigation being launched.
The UK Government's Department for Science, Innovation and Technology confirmed that BT's back-up system is running and those facing emergencies should be able to connect when calling 999 or 112. However, if people are still facing difficulties, they have been told to contact 101 for police and fire services and 111 for health-related services.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue service and Police Scotland earlier issued this advice to Glaswegians struggling to access emergency services.
READ MORE: Glasgow police and fire service issue advice as 999 calls 'not connecting'
A UK Government spokesperson said: "We are aware of a technical issue with the 999 call system today. A full investigation is underway to resolve this as quickly as possible.
“BT's back-up system for emergency calls is running and members of the public with genuine emergencies should continue to call 999 or 112 in the normal way.
“You should be able to connect when calling 999 or 112, but if you still have difficulties connecting you may contact 101 for police and fire and rescue services, or 111 for health."
Scotland's Justice Secretary Angela Constance also confirmed she has activated the Scottish Government’s resilience arrangements to ensure public safety following a technical issue affecting 999 calls in some areas.
She said: “We are aware of a technical issue with the 999 call system today which may be causing some delays. An investigation is underway to resolve the situation as soon as possible.
“BT's back-up system for 999/112 is fully operational and members of the public with genuine emergencies should continue to call 999 or 112 in the normal way.
“If you experience any difficulties connecting with 999 or 112, you should contact 101 for police and fire and rescue services, or 111 for health.
“Further updates will be provided as the situation evolves.
“I have activated the Scottish Government’s Resilience Room (SGoRR) to help safeguard the public and we are working closely with the UK Government and the emergency services while the situation is resolved.
