Government warned not to trust BT offer to improve broadband

TORY MPS have warned ministers that they will be “naive” if they trust BT to deliver fast broadband to rural areas. The Government yesterday announced that they could consider dropping a manifesto pledge to give people a legal right to demand access to fast broadband.

They are considering a “voluntary” offer by BT, which would mean that the company delivers the planned rollout of fast broadband itself.

BT claims it can deliver the same benefits without the need for Government subsidies. However BT’S rivals have estimated that average bills for consumers could rise by between £10 and £20 to fund the cost of the upgrades.

Tory MPS yesterday warned ministers that they risk “having the wool pulled over their eyes” if they abandon plans for new laws that entitle people to fast broadband.

Grant Shapps, chairman of the British Infrastructure Group of MPS and a former Tory chairman, said: “It’s naive to believe that BT Openreach will deliver. Does their track record suggest this will happen in the way that’s being suggested? Ministers risk having the wool pulled over their eyes.”

Matt Hancock, the culture minister, said the change in approach could deliver high-speed broadband quicker to those still unconnected.

Government figures rejected the suggestion people would have weaker legal rights to demand broadband. They noted that BT would have an obligation to deliver the contract.

Gavin Patterson, BT’S chief executive, said: “We are pleased to make a voluntary offer to deliver the Government’s goal for universal broadband access at minimum speeds of 10Mbps.

“This would involve an estimated investment of £450m-£600m depending on the final technology solution.”

Karen Bradley, the Culture Secretary, said: “The government is taking action to ensure that people everywhere in the UK can get a decent broadband connection as soon as possible. We warmly welcome BT’S offer and now will look at whether this or a regulatory approach works better for homes and businesses.

“Whichever of the two approaches we go with in the end, the driving force behind our decision making will be making sure we get the best deal for consumers.”