HC Deb 02 May 2002 vol 384 cc919-20W
15. Mr. Edwards

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps she is taking to assist the roll-out of broadband infrastructure in Monmouthshire. [52012]

Mr. Alexander

The UK online annual report in November 2001 set out the Government's strategy for making the broadband market more extensive and competitive.

Last month BT announced its intention to enable a further 100 telephone exchanges, including in Monmouth, to deliver ADSL services.

27. Mr. Bacon

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will make a statement on progress towards the Government's target for broadband access. [52029]

Mr. Alexander

The UK online annual report (November 2001) assessed the UK's progress in developing an extensive and competitive broadband market.

Since then, take-up has risen to above 500,000 customers, while coverage has increased with 100 further telephone exchanges now due to be enabled to provide broadband services.

John Robertson

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many homes and businesses have a broadband connection. [52014]

Mr. Alexander

The UK now has over half a million broadband connections. This represents a 54 per cent. increase since the beginning of 2002.

BT's commitment to broadband and their recent price reductions, together with the successful broadband programmes of the cable companies, pave the way for further advances on broadband during 2002.