Ofcom to 'clear the way' for broadband investment

Telecoms regulator Ofcom has announced that it will fully back high-speed broadband roll-out plans in the UK and also "clear the way" for future investment.

The watchdog revealed plans to open up competition and encourage investment in broadband infrastructure with the aim of providing speeds of up to 40Mbps for UK households.

Among proposed initiatives include market reviews, support for industry developments and also wide-ranging backing for private investment wherever appropriate.

Ed Richards, Ofcom chief executive, said that high-speed broadband represents "one of the most important developments in modern communications for many decades".

"It will deliver significant benefits to consumers and businesses with the prospect of new digital services delivered over the internet at high speed," he explained.

"Our message today is clear: there are no regulatory barriers in the way of investment in super-fast broadband; we want to promote investment but also ensure that there is fair and effective competition for the future."

However, Ofcom also indicated that broadband plans will not rely on solely private finance, as the level of private sector investment "remains uncertain".

British Telecom has also signalled an intention to plough ahead with its £1.5 billion broadband roll-out plans after receiving favourable conditions from the regulator.