The government has launched two consultations aimed at improving broadband connections in “the most remote and rural parts of the UK”.
The first consultation asks whether changes are needed to the Broadband Universal Service Obligation (USO), which gives homeowners and businesses the legal right to request an affordable, decent broadband connection.
It asks whether changes are needed to ensure the USO stays up to date with current technical standards.
The second consultation is on further proposals to improve broadband provision for what the government has called ‘Very Hard to Reach Premises’, which it said are unlikely to receive a gigabit-capable connection via either a commercial or government-funded intervention.
The consultation covers:
- The government’s policy position;
- Its evaluation criteria for determining policy options and the potential options available to it;
- The service parameters that very hard to reach premises may require;
- Barriers to delivery that remain for very hard to reach premises.
The government has also set out other actions to support rural communities including a strategic plan to deliver more affordable homes, and a new report aimed at encouraging local authorities to unlock the benefits of technology and innovation in rural transport.
Secretary of State at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) Thérèse Coffey commented: “Our countryside, home to millions of people, is rich in potential and we want to make sure that everyone can develop their skills and reach the opportunities for success.
“So whether through improved connectivity, housing or transport I’m championing rural communities as we seek to grow our economy – so that every part of our country gets the support it needs to thrive.”
