Internet providers questioned on broadband coverage

6 March 2018

The Scottish Affairs Committee hears from internet service providers and alternative network providers.

In this meeting, BT, Openreach, Virgin Media and TalkTalk give evidence to the Committee about their action to improve broadband coverage in Scotland.

The Committee also questions Hyperoptic, CityFibre, Broadway Partners and the Independent Networks Association about what they're doing to create new digital infrastructure in Scotland.

Following commitments from both the UK and Scottish Governments to rolling out broadband coverage across the country, this session investigates the barriers to delivering superfast broadband, funding and new technology options. The Committee also examines the reasons behind discrepancies between advertised download speeds and actual speeds experienced by consumers.

Witnesses

Tuesday 6 March, Committee Room 16, Palace of Westminster

From 9.45am - internet service providers

Brendan Dick, Director, BT Scotland
Kim Mears, Managing Director, Strategic Infrastructure Development, Openreach
Iain Wood, Director of Corporate Affairs and Regulation, TalkTalk
Daniel Butler, Head of Public Affairs and Policy, Virgin Media

From 11.00am - alternative network providers

Malcolm Corbett, Chief Executive Officer, Independent Networks Cooperative Association
James McClafferty, Head of Regional Development, CityFibre
Floyd Widener, Chief Sales Officer, Hyperoptic
Michael Armitage, Chair, Broadway Partners

Chair's comments

Ahead of the session, Committee Chair Pete Wishart said:

"Having heard from broadband experts, and visited Aberdeen to gain insight into the experiences of local communities and businesses, the Committee will now hear from internet service providers and alternative network providers about broadband provision in Scotland.

We look forward to discussing how to achieve increased levels of investment and innovation, particularly in hard-to-reach areas. Both types of providers have a role to play in ensuring barriers to greater coverage are overcome, to the benefit of Scottish consumers and the wider economy."

Further information

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