WACT Conference Tuesday 18th March Presentation on Wales’ Broadband Strategy by Andrew Davies AM Economic Development and e-Minister Welsh Assembly Government

Issues 1.Need for an acceleration in broadband rollout and take up: 2.Importance of an appropriate regulatory environment; 3.Importance of consumer representation and a voice for Wales feeding into OFCOM structure

The Case for Intervention Combination of:- Geography Demographics and Relatively low levels of economic activity mean that the market left to itself is unlikely to deliver affordable broadband to many parts of Wales.

Broadband Wales Programme £115 million Flagship Programme A balanced, holistic & flexible strategy targeting:- -supply & demand side -encouraging local initiatives -facilitating specific procurements -development of the aggregation of public sector demand.

Broadband Wales Programme (continued) Not just about technology but how we use it to:- -enhance our communities -build successful businesses -improve public services, and, -develop ICT skills and learning

Progress to Date SME Broadband Satellite Subsidy launched, full operational and delivering ‘Try Before You Buy’ showcasing facilities providing practical advice on the potential and benefits of broadband Wales Lifelong Learning Network- approx.. 50% of schools.to be connected by end of this month.

Objective 1 Bid £20 million bid to: 1.Reverse subsidy auction to extend broadband availability 2.Extension to the Public Sector Network,and 3.Support for Local Innovative and Regional projects

Balanced Approach Targeting both the demand and supply side to address market failure Objective : To kick-start a virtuous broadband cycle of increased demand feeding supply.

Regulatory Framework Vital to ensure that:- markets work efficiently there is genuine competition and consumer choice Need to strike a balancing act between dangers of over-regulation and interventions to protect consumer interests and the long term viability of the market.

OFCOM Will merge the functions of; the ITC, Broadcasting Standards Commission, Oftel, Radio Authority and RA. Vital that Wales has a voice within this new structure through the OFCOM consumer panel and content board Assembly Government has also lobbied hard for representation on main OFCOM board.

Thank You For further information on the Assembly Governments strategic plans to facilitate a first class telecommunications infrastructure and the progress we are making please visit:-