LGA responds to Public Accounts Committee report on improving broadband

"Councils are committed to working closely with the Government to help deliver on its nationwide gigabit-broadband and mobile coverage ambitions."

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Responding to the report by the Public Accounts Committee on improving broadband, Cllr Mark Hawthorne, Digital connectivity spokesperson at the LGA, said:

“Access to fast and reliable broadband is more important than ever, so it is concerning that this report suggests homes and businesses in rural areas may not be served with gigabit-capable broadband for years to come.

“The Government’s downgrading of its 100 per cent coverage target was disappointing and we urge it to set out as soon as possible its revised timeline for delivering universal gigabit-capable broadband coverage. This is particularly important for rural areas, many of which are already struggling to access superfast speeds.

“Councils are committed to working closely with the Government to help deliver on its nationwide gigabit-broadband and mobile coverage ambitions. We are pleased the Committee has backed our call for councils to have the funding they need to play a role accelerating and co-ordinating local broadband delivery.”