Oral Answers to Questions

Andrew Rosindell Excerpts

Thursday 3rd March 2016 Commons Chamber

[Mr Evennett]

I commend my hon. Friend’s hard work in ensuring there were visitors to the birthplace of rugby during the Rugby world cup. I am interested in his proposition. I look forward to seeing what progress can be made and to visiting his area.

[Andrew Rosindell (Romford) (Con)]

11. What steps his Department is taking to improve competition among internet service providers.

[The Minister for Culture and the Digital Economy (Mr Edward Vaizey)]

We have a very competitive internet service provider market in the UK. Ofcom has just published its digital communications review. It promises further changes, which we welcome.

[Andrew Rosindell]

Will the Minister tell the House what discussions he has had with the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills regarding the potential benefits of encouraging alternative investment and competition in the UK’s telecommunications infrastructure?

[Mr Vaizey]

We have announced a joint review with the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills of business broadband, and the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills takes a very close interest in that issue. Both Departments are very focused on Ofcom’s recommendations. My message to BT is that I hope it will reach agreement with Ofcom in the very near future.