'Fresh approach' called for on broadband

A "fresh approach" is needed on the issue of deploying broadband throughout the UK, the communications minister has claimed.

Stephen Carter, giving evidence on the BBC's commercial interests to the Culture Committee, said he believed that full broadband access for the whole country was something "we should have".

He also claimed that the government may well be able to play a part, continuing a debate on the issue that has been running for some time.

"We're at one of those points where we should have another re-think and it's time for a fresh approach. I think there's definitely a role for government," he said.

However, Lord Carter warned that the economic downturn may have an effect on broadband pricing.

"It's an opportunity in a funny sort of way, because it's going to put pressure on people and businesses to find ever more efficient ways of doing things," he added.

In an interview with the Guardian last month, the minister called for broadband to be considered in public service funding policy.