§ Mr. ToddTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will place obligations on telecommunications providers to increase the availability of broadband technologies in rural areas; and if she will make a statement. [26422]
§ Mr. AlexanderThe Office of Telecommunications (Oftel) sets the minimum service standard for telecommunications in the UK as part of the Universal Service Obligation on BT, taking into account the appropriate European legislation. Oftel have no plans at present to place obligations on telecommunications providers to make broadband services available. Oftel will keep the situation under review.