Haggle with BT - our new guide

I've just tried unsuccessfully to haggle with BT because of the latest phone & broadband increases.
I've switched to Plusnet for £38 per month for fibre 2 unlimited & anytime calls compared to the 'reduced' current price of about £45 per month that I have been paying BT for the past year. Last year they reduced my broadband by £17.50 per month for a year to match the then Plusnet price. They weren't prepared to do the same this time.

They did offer a loyalty reduction on broadband only of £39.49 / month this time, but this would basically be the same as the whole monthly cost of Plusnet (who also include 2000 mobile minutes which you don't get with BT anytime package).

I was not dissatisfied with BT but am thoroughly fatigued with the constant hard sell by post and email of content services I do not want. I explained I am on a fixed pension which does not keep pace with the continual BT price increases.

I think BT are guilty of sharp practice by immediately sending out emails threatening there is a charge to leave them when you initiate a switch. In my case it would have been £42 for the remaining month left on my contract.
I rang the retentions number on 0800 345 7311 explained my OFCOM consumer protection rights (thanks MSE!) having given them notice within 30 days of notification of the price rise. The BT rep said they would ensure I was not charged this 'penalty' for ending my contract early., and they would note this on my account.

BT should cease and desist sending these emails until after the 30 days protection period have ended.
My experience is that BT are hardening their stance, in relation to haggling. Would be interested to hear if others get anything close to other providers price match.