New government funding plans for broadband future

The government is considering injecting finance to guarantee the future universal provision of high-speed broadband in the UK, according to reports.

Speaking at the Digital Britain summit in London, business secretary Lord Mandelson said that current infrastructure build programmes could run the risk of half the population not being able to access this vital technology.

Prime minister Gordon Brown has said earlier at the event that universal broadband is essential for the future prosperity of Great Britain.

This is part of the government's pledge to guarantee broadband of a minimum speed of 2Mbps to every household and business by 2012.

Lord Mandelson told delegates at the summit: "The market unaided will provide some of the next-generation infrastructure the UK needs.

"But can we rest comfortably knowing that only half of British homes will have access to next-generation broadband over the next few years? I do not think we can be content with that."

The minster hinted that freeing up the wireless radio spectrum could be vital in meeting the pledge as this will open up mobilebroadband provision to even the most remote areas.

He also said that it is a "possibility" the government may also inject funds where it is "appropriate and right", but added that he favours private market forces to provide the service.