Labour to upgrade digital infrastructure
The Government has unveiled plans to roll out next-generation wireless broadband and enhanced 3G coverage to up to 90 per cent of the country. It has launched a consultation process, setting out its intention to implement a series of improvements to the UK’s digital infrastructure. The proposals follow the Digital Britain report in June, which set out the Government’s ambitions to upgrade the infrastructure. Minister for Digital Britain,... [Read More...]
£6-a-year broadband tax ‘to become law’
A controversial broadband tax is set to become law before the next election, charging 50 pence a month to everyone with a fixed line telephone. Speaking at a debate in London, Minister for Digital Britain, Stephen Timms, said the tax will be presented to parliament as part of the Finance Bill. “We want to make high speed networks nationally available. The next-generation fund will help that and we will legislate for it this side of a general... [Read More...]
Digital Britain has new minister in driving seat
Stephen Timms, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, is understood to be taking on the role of Minster for Communications to drive the implementation of the Government’s Digital Britain report. Part of his remit will be to push the 50p-a-month levy on phone lines proposed to fund the Government’s universal broadband plans. He will bring a Digital Economy bill before parliament in the autumn. Timms is expected to work across the Treasury and Lord... [Read More...]
£1 billion investment fund launched to boost UK digital industry
The Government has launched a fund aimed at technology start-ups, which it hopes will provide £1 billion to develop the UK’s digital industry over the next 10 years. The launch of the Innovation Investment Fund, with £150 million of Government money, follows the release of Lord Carter’s Digital Britain report in June. A spokesman for the fund said it would provide “crucial support” and “timely investment” for... [Read More...]
BBC license fee to fund UK broadband access and ITV news
For the first time, part of the BBC licence fee will be used to fund projects outside of the broadcaster’s control, including a project to improve nationwide broadband access. The recommendations come from the Digital Britain report, a much-anticipated government white paper looking at the changing face of communication in the UK, and steps need to be taken to help citizens make the best use out of new mediums. New culture secretary Ben Bradshaw... [Read More...]