Digital Connectivity Hardest-to-reach Premises 2022-06-27
2022-06-27
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Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The levelling-up White Paper references the need to improve digital connectivity in rural areas. The questioner seeks details on recent discussions with Cabinet colleagues about this issue.
What recent discussions have you had with Cabinet colleagues on improving the digital connectivity of the hardest-to-reach premises as referenced in the levelling-up White Paper?
I am in regular contact with other Ministers on this subject, which is very important for rural areas. Through Project Gigabit we are investing £5 billion in better broadband. At the start of 2019, just 7% of Welsh households could get gigabit internet; now 51% can. We are investing a further £1 billion in the shared rural network, which will increase 4G coverage in mid and west Wales from 86% to 97%.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The questioner points out that some 19% of properties in Ceredigion receive broadband speeds under 10 megabits per second, despite plans to improve connectivity for other areas. He asks how the Government will ensure these specific communities benefit from improved connectivity when commercial companies have not brought forward any plans.
The Minister will be aware that some 19% of properties in Ceredigion currently receive broadband speeds of under 10 megabits per second. Although there are plans to improve connectivity in a number of these areas, there are other communities in villages such as Plwmp, Brynhoffnant, Blaenporth, Penrhiwllan, Ffostrasol and Rhydlewis that are not currently subject to any plans. How will the Government ensure that such communities will benefit from improved connectivity even when commercial companies have not thus far brought forward any plans?
That is a very important observation. I mentioned some of the huge investments that we are making and the pace that things are moving, but we want them to happen even more quickly. If the hon. Member would like to discuss further how we can make the new roll-out go even faster, I would love to do that.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about ensuring connectivity for unaddressed communities was not directly answered with a concrete plan or commitment.
Want Them To Happen Even More Quickly
I Would Love To Discuss Further
Response accuracy