Montgomeryshire AM Mick Bates has welcomed the renewed commitment by the UK Government to universal broadband access and the appointment of a UK Broadband Minister and calls for swift action to bridge the digital divide with next generation infrastructure, so that Wales does not fall further behind following Ofcom figures which revealed Wales is lagging behind in internet use.
According to the government, it will encourage BT and other network providers to ensure such broadband is made available, as well as attempting to get the services online in remote areas. In addition, the agreement stated: “If necessary, we will consider using the part of the TV licence fee that is supporting the digital switchover to fund broadband in areas that the market alone will not reach.” The government has also appointed Ed Vaizey as the man responsible for efforts to roll out fibre optic broadband across the UK.
Commenting, Assembly Member Mick Bates states:
“I am delighted by the renewed commitment of the UK Government to provide a quality universal broadband service. If there is no obligation on network providers to ensure universal access then rural Wales will continue to be left behind by the digital divide, so encouraging network providers to ensure broadband is made available is key.
“Latest figures from Ofcom have reiterated what we have known for too long – that Wales is lagging behind in internet use and people on low incomes and in rural areas are missing out on vital public services.
“As more and more facilities and services are offered online, often with cheaper deals and much easier access, individuals and businesses need access to high speed, affordable internet to enjoy the benefits it offers and enable them to compete in local and global markets.
“With the renewed commitment by the UK Government to provide universal broadband access and the appointment of a Broadband Minister, I hope we will see a swift roll out of next generation, super-fast fibre based broadband in Wales so that we are no longer left behind by the digital revolution.”
