MUMBAI: To ensure that all citizens of UK benefit from technology, the government has said that FTTH should be fitted as standard in all new homes. This proposal is part of a new national telecoms strategy drawn up by the UK Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).

Currently, copper wire network delivers the service which is targeted to be replaced by full-fibre broadband coverage by 2033 across the country. “We want everyone in the UK to benefit from world-class connectivity, no matter where they live, work or travel,” DCMS Secretary Jeremy Wright said.

“This radical new blueprint for the future of telecommunications in this country will increase competition and investment in full-fibre broadband, create more commercial opportunities and make it easier and cheaper to roll out infrastructure for 5G,” he added.

As in some parts of the country, it was unlikely that the market could deliver by itself, the government would support investment in the most difficult-to-reach areas. Recently, UK slipped from 31st to 35th place in the global broadband league tables, behind 25 other European countries, as per data from M-Lab.

“We welcome the government’s review, and share its ambition for full-fibre and 5G networks to be rolled out right across the UK,” Ofcom chief executive Sharon White commented. “The government and Ofcom are working together, and with industry, to help ensure people and businesses get the broadband and mobile they need for the 21st century, ” she added.

“As well as broadband, this plan will also leave the UK well-placed to introduce the latest 5G mobile technology wherever people live, work and travel,” National Infrastructure Commission chairman Sir John Armitt said.