Ofcom chief backs universal broadband

The new chairperson of communications regulator Ofcom has stated her support for plans to provide universal broadband in the UK.

During a re-appointment hearing held jointly by the Commons Business and Enterprise and Culture, Media and Sports Committees, Dr Colette Bowe revealed that universal provision of broadband was among her key priorities.

However, she did not explain how this would work in practice or whether the requirement for universal roll out would be carried solely by British Telecom or all internet service providers.

Dr Bowe made this statement while replying to a question from Angus SNP MP Mike Weir, who represents a remote constituency where people often struggle to get a broadband connection.

Mr Weir described this as "significant" and also stressed the problems that many consumers in Scotland have in accessing the service, even when the local exchange has been enabled.

"I will be taking a close interest to ensure that this point is pressed home to government and look forward to seeing how she pushes the idea through Ofcom," Mr Weir explained.

"This must, however, be allied to an obligation to upgrade systems, and particularly the existing links from exchanges to homes, to ensure that everyone can receive high-speed broadband."

Communications minister Lord Carter hinted this week that he is about to support universal broadband roll out in the upcoming Digital Britain report.