I appreciate how important broadband is to both individuals and businesses. Reliable, fast broadband is now seen as the norm, not a nice-to-have. It underpins economic growth, especially rural areas like Taunton Deane, and allows homes to function in a digital age. Over 90 per cent of UK premises are now able to connect to superfast broadband meaning that the UK has the highest superfast broadband coverage amongst the top five European economies. But I recognise that more needs to be done to ensure that all parts of the country have the access to the broadband they need.

I welcome Ofcom’s determination in tackling issues that may prevent this from happening. Ministers have noted its view that the current relationship between BT and Openreach will not deliver the country’s needs for more competition, better innovation and better service and they strongly support Ofcom in taking whatever action is needed to correct any competition problems, however radical a change that might be. The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) are clear that a more independent Openreach is needed to benefit consumers and the UK’s digital infrastructure. I share Ministers’ concerns that BT’s proposals do not go far enough and think it is right that full structural separation remains an option.

Please be aware that I have been working hard on this issue since my election in 2015. I regularly meet with businesses and communities in Taunton Deane and feed local concerns and suggestions back to both Ministers and BT. I have been encouraging both BT and Connecting Devon and Somerset to work together and use the new technologies available to help connect all those in Taunton Deane who currently do not have access to superfast broadband.

I understand just how frustrating it is to have a bad broadband connection. Broadband is a modern necessity, and the Government is working hard to ensure that the whole of Britain has the broadband that it needs.

Thank you again if you have contacted me on this very important issue and please do contact me if you have an individual concern about your broadband connection.