Alcatel Modem Problem Solved
It has taken me 18 days to get onto the BT Broadband. Thanks to those of you who gave advice. Once a line problem was cleared, I still couldn't get a connection; suspecting the KT133 chipset, I had a PCI-USB card installed. I got the machine back this morning and bingo! first time connected and stays connected. Difference in speed is amazing.
Thanks again guys - now to battle with complaints/customer service! (They should have known about the KT133 problem)...
FJJP