HC Deb 29 November 2001 vol 375 cc1038-9W
19. Mr. Peter Duncan

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what progress has been made in extending broadband telecommunications to rural communities. [16489]

Mr. Alexander

Broadband services by one or more of ADSL, cable or wireless technologies are available to 60–60 per cent. of households in the UK. Satellite services, which potentially can offer coverage of the entire country, are beginning to become available. We have established a £30 million fund to help extend affordable broadband services to areas where they are not currently available.

35. Mr. Allan

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what plans she has to improve access to broadband telecommunications networks in 2002. [16508]

Mr. Alexander

The Government will shortly set out their strategy for making the broadband market more extensive and competitive. Regional Development Agencies and the devolved administrations are already preparing plans for innovative projects, under the £30 million fund to extend broadband networks announced on 9 October.