Written question WQ98185
- Asked by
- Gareth DaviesConservative
- To be answered by
- Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Trefnydd and Chief Whip
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 12 days
Question
What impact assessment has the Welsh Government made regarding the impact of the cessation of terrestrial broadcast licensing on digital inclusion?
Answer
Answered by Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership
The Welsh Government recognises the importance of access to terrestrial television to digital inclusion in Wales. According to Connected Nations 2025, whilst 78% of residential premises in Wales now have full-fibre coverage, an increase of 10 percent from 2024, and 81% have gigabit capable connectivity, there remains 19% percent of residential premises that have neither. This highlights the continued importance of terrestrial broadcast for digitally excluded people who may not have the choice of other TV content such as streaming or subscription media services.
The Welsh Government has stressed the need for a balanced approach to provision in discussions with the UK Government and Ofcom on this matter and has met with representatives from Broadcast 2040+.