In figures given to the DUP MP the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology said the Government’s target is that 85% of UK premises can access gigabit-capable broadband by 2025. However, Northern Ireland is the only region in the United Kingdom to have already surpassed this target, with 90.6% of premises already having access, compared to a UK average of 74%.
Mr Campbell said, “The DUP made access to broadband a party priority in 2016 and secured £150million of funding in 2017 to make this vision a reality. As a result Northern Ireland is well ahead of other regions in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland in terms of access to high-speed internet connection. Broadband is no longer a luxury, but is vital to many aspects of everyday life for both households and businesses. The investment delivered by the DUP has been transformational, particularly for those in rural communities, many of whom were forced to pay for costly satellite or wireless connections to access any kind of broadband.
Northern Ireland is not just leading our near neighbours in this regard, but last year the Financial Times ranked OECD countries by full-fibre rollout. Northern Ireland was beaten only by South Korea and Japan in that regard.
This provision is a practical demonstration of delivery from investment secured by the DUP.”
Mr Campbell's question can be viewed here:
