Gigabit Broadband Rollout Rural and Urban Communities 2022-07-07
2022-07-07
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question stems from concerns about the pace and coverage of high-speed internet deployment in both rural and urban areas. The MP is seeking an assessment on how these regions are being impacted.
What assessment has been made of the impact of the rate of delivery of gigabit broadband rollout on (a) rural and (b) urban communities?
Through Project Gigabit we are ensuring that hard-to-reach areas of the UK gain access to world-class gigabit connectivity alongside delivering gigabit broadband to the rest of the country ahead of demand. Connectivity stood at 6% in 2019, while today the figure is 69%. This indicates significant progress.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer did not provide a specific assessment for rural and urban communities separately or statistics on their impact.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The question is prompted by concerns about leadership and accountability regarding the gigabit broadband initiative. The MP references a perceived lack of credibility from the Prime Minister.
Rolling out gigabit broadband requires real leadership. Given that the Prime Minister has brought his office into disrepute, will the Deputy Prime Minister step up to lead this programme over the summer?
Yes, I am afraid that question does not relate to gigabit broadband roll-out.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific leadership issue was completely avoided by stating it is unrelated.
Changing The Subject
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
This question comes from an announcement regarding a deal between Solihull council, Solihull Community Housing, and CityFibre to provide full-fiber internet networks for 4000 community housing tenants. The MP is highlighting this as good news and seeks support.
I wish to focus on something else that is very good news in my locality: a deal ensuring 4,000 community housing tenants get the latest full-fibre network. Will the Secretary of State join me in congratulating Solihull council, Solihull Community Housing and CityFibre? Does she agree we must ensure everyone is covered so no one is left behind?
I thank my hon. Friend for the work he continually contributes to this area and as Chair of the Select Committee, and he is absolutely right. The manifesto commitment was for 100% coverage: that is the Prime Minister's absolute commitment that nobody would be left behind. Innovative ways such as using 5G and satellite are being worked on now.
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Assessment & feedback
null
Response accuracy