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Written question asked by Stephen Flynn (Scottish National Party) on Friday, 12 December 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 16 December 2025. It was answered by Kanishka Narayan (Labour) on Monday, 22 December 2025 on behalf of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology.

Broadband: Scotland

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what steps she is taking to ensure that multi-dwelling units can be accessed for the purpose of broadband installation in Scotland under schedule 3A of the Communications Act 2003.

Answer

The consultation on legislative proposals to address broadband rollout in leasehold flats has been published on 15th December and closes on 16th February 2026. The proposals are based on leasehold law applicable in England and Wales. Whilst the consultation does not extend to Scotland, we continue to engage with the Devolved Nations on issues relating to the deployment of digital infrastructure, including deployments to blocks of flats.

Schedule 3A of the Communications Act 2003 (the Electronic Communications Code) provides operators rights to install, maintain and upgrade electronic communications apparatus to properties and applies across the UK. Part 4A of the code contains specific measures to address access issues in multi-dwelling units, including blocks of flats, when a landlord is repeatedly unresponsive.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
99508
Session
2024-26
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Broadband Flats Scotland
Legislation
Communications Act 2003
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk