BBC may have role in future broadband plans

There may be a leading role for the BBC to play in the future of high-speed broadband provision in the UK, it has emerged.

Communications minister Lord Carter indicated that the public broadcaster could get involved with helping the government to meet its universal broadband pledge.

Recently laid out in the interim Digital Britain report, the government has signalled an intention to guarantee broadband of a minimum speed of 2Mbps to every household by 2012.

Virgin Media's broadband network currently covers 50 per cent of the UK, while BT's covers 40 per cent, which means that there will be areas of service absence, particularly in rural regions.

Speaking to the Commons business select committee, Lord Carter said that the government is presently considering all options for funding universal network coverage, including the use of public sources.

When asked if this included a potential financial or infrastructure role for the BBC, he said: "Possibly is the answer to that."

The Country Land and Business Association has welcomed the potential involvement of the BBC in future broadband provision as being a positive move.