BURNHAM WELCOMES BROADBAND EXPANSION

10.00.00am GMT Fri 30th Jan 2009

Eleanor Burnham, Assembly Member for North Wales has welcomed the publication of the "Digital Britain" report which recommends a much-improved and universal broadband service provision by 2012 but has stressed the need to make sure the recommendations become reality.

The report, launched by UK Minister for Communications, Lord Carter, announced that the minimum service obligation of telecom companies to their customers will be increased to a 2Mb per second broadband service. At present the Universal Service Obligation provides for the old-fashioned dial-up internet service at the slow speeds of 28Kb per second.

Eleanor, Welsh Lib Dem Spokesperson for Culture said, "I have always spoken out emphatically about inconsistent broadband provision in Wales. The news that high-speed access will be available to all by 2012 is a major step forward, but the Government must accept that they have a part to play in making sure that this service is actually delivered. Planning and funding must follow Lord Carter's announcement so that the roll-out is prompt and successful.

"Geographically, there are areas of Wales which will require substantial investment in order to achieve this service. That should not be a barrier to getting it done. Businesses in rural areas will be particularly pleased with the news that they can soon take full advantage of the digital revolution and I am eager to see Lord Carter's recommendations being implemented.

"As a champion of equalities I am delighted that everyone in Wales will soon be able to participate fully in local, national and global markets and services."