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<p>My department engages with colleagues across Government, including Cabinet Office,
to discuss matters relating to how we improve connectivity for the whole of the UK.</p><p>Over
74% of UK premises can now access gigabit-capable broadband, up from 6% in January
2019. The competitive and pro-growth regulatory environment we have created has given
investors the confidence to provide billions of pounds of investment to enable broadband
suppliers to expand their networks across the UK. But we recognise that some parts
of the country will not attract commercial investment and therefore we already have
substantial capital investment programmes in place. Our £1 billion superfast programme
has extended superfast broadband of at least 30 Mbps to over 97% of UK premises, and
we are making excellent progress with Project Gigabit, the government’s £5 billion
mission to deliver even faster, and more reliable broadband to rural and hard to reach
parts of the UK.</p><p>My department has negotiated a range of high-quality, low-cost
fixed broadband and mobile social tariffs for households in receipt of Universal Credit
and other means tested benefits for as little as £10 per month. These offers are available
in 99% of the UK.</p><p>Support is also available for those seeking employment. Jobcentre
Plus work coaches can provide free broadband connections for 6 months to eligible
claimants who are not online. This is administered by the DWP’s Flexible Support Fund.</p>
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