MPs urge Government to change law to guarantee cheap broadband for hard-up families

SENIOR MPs tonight backed demands for the Government to change the law to guarantee hard-up families cheap broadband.

The Local Government Association (LGA) wants a “social tariff” below the market rate to be introduced that would put internet access on a par with utilities such as gas, electricity and water.

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Under the proposal, Ministers would launch the tariff in 2020 – when every home will have the legal right to broadband connections with a speed of 10Mbps.

Former Culture Secretary Ed Vaizey said: “We already have some of the lowest broadband speeds in Europe, thanks to competition.

“But the government should definitely think about reducing the cost of broadband for people on low incomes, just as they help with other utility costs.”

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The LGA said it had no preference over who would pick up the tab for the subsidy that would pave the way for a social tariff – be it the Government or BT.

Councillor Mark Hawthorne, Chairman of the LGA’s People and Places Board, said: “Good digital connectivity is a vital element of everyday life for residents and can help them cut household bills, shop online for cheaper goods, stay in touch with distant relatives, access their bank accounts and even run their own businesses.

“As central and local government services become more digital, the USO will need to provide faster and more reliable speeds and, for our most vulnerable residents, a subsided connection at an affordable price."