Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what steps his Department is taking to help ensure equality of access to rural fibre-optic infrastructure.

Poor internet access can pose significant challenges for rural and urban communities alike, which is why the government is determined to improve access and promote digital participation.

The Government is committed to improving broadband access in rural areas through Project Gigabit, which is delivering gigabit capable connectivity for millions of rural homes.

While we expect most premises will be covered by commercial activity or Project Gigabit, for those parts of the UK where this is not possible, government is considering alternative ways to improve connectivity.