Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, whether his department has considered working with Ofcom to help ensure that mobile network operators share masts and/or sites where possible.

The Department works closely with Ofcom on a range of issues including those related to the deployment of mobile networks and infrastructure and continues to engage on how sharing of masts and sites can be encouraged where appropriate.

Duties and obligations relating to telecommunications installations are included in the Electronic Communications Code (Conditions and Restrictions) Regulations 2003, which include requirements to share apparatus where practicable.

The Code of Practice for Wireless Network Development also sets out best practice guidance for mobile network operators and local authorities on deploying wireless infrastructure, including considerations for siting equipment. It complements existing legislation and provides clear, practical advice to support all stakeholders involved in the deployment process.

The Communications (Access to Infrastructure) Regulations 2016 further gives operators the right to request access to another operator’s infrastructure.