Written question asked by Stephen O'Brien (Conservative) on Tuesday, 24 February 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 8 March 2004. It was answered by Stephen Timms (Labour) on Monday, 8 March 2004 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what role Ofcom will have in promoting the take-up of broadband.

Answer: Mr. Stephen O'Brien: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what role Ofcom will have in promoting the take-up of broadband. [157243] Mr. Timms: The Communications Act 2003 (c.21) Part 1, page 3 sets out the general duties of Ofcom in carrying out their functions, including the desirability of encouraging the availability and use of high speed data transfer services throughout the United Kingdom. The Government believe that a competitive market is key to the successful promotion of broadband. Ofcom is continuing to promote effective and sustainable competition in the broadband market. Ofcom is consulting on its Annual Plan until 11 March 2004. In this, Ofcom proposes to publish a broadband consumer guide in Summer 2004 to help and encourage consumers to take advantage of the choices and services available to them.

Secondary information