I need to run some telephone cables under a carpet. My dad reckons you can by 'flat' cables like thick tape. Does anyone know if this is true and if so where I could find some?

Yes it is available however it is usually designed for termination into plugs as it is stranded rather than single core. Try somewhere like Maplin.

Be careful in how you lay it. It is not a particulary good idea to lay any telephone cables under a carpet. Much better to hide it neatly round the edge of the carpet. Watch out for the gripper boards though !!

Chris
Do you just want to run the cable round the edge of a carpet without it turning up too much?, or do you need to get to the centre of a room where it will be walked over. Cable is available for both of these applications, bit pricey for the latter I think.
Mail me if you want me to find out more from my suppliers.
Cheers
Andy

R. S. Spares can supply what they call Modular Flat Telephone Cable.

26awg (7/34) modular multiconductor stranded unshielded flat (oval) telehone cable.
Suitable for local area network
Supplied in 10m reels in an easy to use dispencer.

Voltage rating 150V
jacket material Silver PVC
Operating temperature +60 degrees C

4 way 2.5mm x 5 Stock No. 168-1442 £23.19

6 way 2.5mm x 7 Stock No. 168-1458 £31.21

8 way 2.5mm x 8.5 Stock No. 168 - 1464 £39.26

As you can see it's not cheap.

Thanks everyone, I have gone the cheapo route, Maplins cable and connectors and agreed with the carpet fitters I will go around the outside of the room around the carpet gripper which should avoid the acble being walked on.