Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Gigabit Broadband

Thursday 24 March 2022 · 3 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 2 Partly answered 1 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Richard Fuller asked about the progress of gigabit broadband rollout in North East Bedfordshire.
  • The Minister confirmed plans to provide gigabit-capable subsidy for areas in North East Bedfordshire through Project Gigabit.
  • Rupa Huq inquired about slow internet speeds in Ealing Broadway and surrounding areas, with a request for a visit to affected regions.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Richard Fuller Con North Bedfordshire
Science & Technology
Context

The question arises from the government's progress on delivering gigabit broadband coverage.

Question

What recent progress has been made on the rollout of gigabit broadband? The national gigabit broadband coverage has increased significantly in the past three years. However, in parts of North East Bedfordshire, the coverage is below average and there are plans to increase it but these areas seem to be missed by current plans.

Answer from Nadine Dorries

The premises in North East Bedfordshire not included in commercial providers' plan will be eligible for gigabit-capable subsidy through Project Gigabit. The procurement covering North East Bedfordshire is due to start by October this year, with a contract in place by September 2023. A meeting can be arranged to discuss these matters.

Answered
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Q2 Richard Fuller Con North Bedfordshire
Energy Business & Trade Environment
Context

The question is raised due to concerns about gigabit coverage not reaching certain rural areas outside major urban centres.

Question

Parts of North East Bedfordshire have below-average gigabit broadband coverage and seem to be missed by current plans. Can a meeting be requested with the Minister directly responsible or the Secretary of State to discuss these rural areas just outside major urban areas or towns?

Answer from Nadine Dorries

Premises not included in commercial providers' plan will be eligible for subsidy through Project Gigabit. Procurement covering North East Bedfordshire starts by October this year, with a contract by September 2023. A meeting can be arranged.

Answered
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Q3 Rupa Huq Lab Ealing Central and Acton
Transport Science & Technology
Context

The question is prompted by digital exclusion affecting businesses and homes in parts of Ealing Broadway, despite infrastructure improvements.

Question

Despite roadworks and cable installation for gigabit broadband, businesses in Ealing Broadway report slow internet speeds. People working from home north of the A40 also face similar issues. When will all constituents be levelled up internet-wise? If not, can a visit to those affected areas be arranged?

Answer from Nadine Dorries

Priority is given to where the need is greatest, including businesses and hard-to-reach communities. Concerns in Ealing Central and Acton will be raised with Building Digital UK for further action.

Partly answered

Not addressed: A specific date or commitment was not provided.

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