Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what performance thresholds will apply when assessing whether the Government's 2030 target for standalone 5G in all populated areas has been met.

The Government’s ambition for all populated areas to have access to higher quality standalone 5G by 2030 is being led by commercial investment from the mobile network operators. All three network operators have committed significant investment plans which align with this Government ambition.

Through the Mobile Market Review, we are looking to better understand how Government can go further in supporting the sector to deliver widespread, high-quality connectivity. Our Call for Evidence asked for detailed evidence on how the Government should think about, and define, ‘good’ mobile coverage in relation to the quality of service provided to consumers, businesses and the public sector. We also sought views and evidence on whether the Government’s standalone 5G coverage ambition is set at the right level.

Our Call for Evidence closed on 5 May. We are reviewing responses and will set out next steps later this year.