What discussions has the Cabinet Secretary had with utility companies regarding the installation of full-fibre broadband in communities listed as deprived areas?
I have met with a number of telecommunications companies regarding the installation of full-fibre broadband across all communities in Wales. In addition, my officials meet regularly with representatives from the telecommunications industry and continue to monitor the opportunities for collaboration with other utilities to improve digital infrastructure across the country.
We continue to make the case for ongoing investment in digital infrastructure throughout Wales. This includes encouraging private sector operators to expand their own networks.
Responsibility for improving broadband connectivity in Wales where the market does not reach, rests with the UK Government. The UK government is committed to achieving nationwide gigabit coverage and expects 99% of premises to have access to a gigabit-capable connection by 2032 and is delivering in Wales through its Project Gigabit investment programme.
Despite telecommunications not being devolved to Wales, we have helped provide access to gigabit capable broadband to more than 44,000 properties across Wales through our full fibre rollout (2019 to 2023). Our Digital strategy for Wales outlines how we will continue to use the levers at our disposal to support all businesses in Wales to receive the connectivity they need.
We have developed a business case for the Extending High Speed Broadband (EHSB) project, to provide fast and reliable broadband to the remaining premises that do not have access to at least superfast broadband speeds of 30Mbps or above and are not in any plans for delivery by either commercial or publicly funded rollouts. EHSB will be technology neutral to reach the widest number of premises. The project has been developed with significant engagement with the telecommunications industry in Wales including working with them to identify unserved premises across Wales.