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Written question asked by Lord Clement-Jones (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 24 July 2025, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 7 August 2025. It was answered by Baroness Jones of Whitchurch (Labour) on Friday, 1 August 2025 on behalf of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology.

Broadband: Low Incomes

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they plan to make more affordable connectivity for people on very low incomes one of their priorities.

Answer

The Government aims to make online access affordable for everyone. The Digital Inclusion Action Plan, published in February 2025, targets the removal of affordability barriers by 2030, ensuring all citizens have affordable, reliable internet and suitable devices.

A range of social tariffs are available, including for those on very low incomes, provided for by the telecoms industry. We continue to urge the industry to raise awareness of these low cost deals for those on means tested benefits, and encourage them to maintain provision.

This is part of wider efforts to address digital exclusion, especially for low-income households, older people, disabled individuals, and the unemployed.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL9876
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Broadband Low incomes
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk