Rural Digital Infrastructure

Wales – in the House of Commons am ar 11 Medi 2024.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of David Chadwick David Chadwick Democratiaid Rhyddfrydol, Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe

What steps she is taking with Cabinet colleagues to improve digital infrastructure in rural Wales.

Photo of Nia Griffith Nia Griffith The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Wales

This Government are committed to improving digital connectivity, as demonstrated by our commitment to full gigabit and national 5G coverage by 2030. I have recently met internet and mobile providers as well as Ofcom. The hon. Member will be aware that, thanks to the UK Government’s shared rural network, 4G connectivity has been boosted in his constituency as a result of the activation last month of two additional masts.

Photo of David Chadwick David Chadwick Democratiaid Rhyddfrydol, Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe

Many of my constituents living in areas such as Llanwrthwl and Llanafan Fawr have been missed out by previous roll-out schemes. Are the Government committed to ensuring that funding is available to ensure that people living in so-called hard-to-reach areas can be connected?

Photo of Nia Griffith Nia Griffith The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Wales

I very much appreciate the concern that the hon. Member has for his constituents, particularly in a rural area that has so many challenges for connectivity. I can tell him that over 90% of premises in his constituency can access superfast broadband speeds. To extend gigabit-capable coverage further, approximately 3,000 premises in his constituency are currently expected to receive gigabit-capable connection through the Project Gigabit cross regional procurement framework. Alongside this, there are 21 voucher projects across the constituency, which will cover approximately 5,000 premises. However, if he has any concerns, perhaps he could come and see me on the matter.