Ministers urge councils to help ‘boost’ digital connectivity

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News Alert: Government ministers have today written to local authorities setting out how they can help boost gigabit broadband rollout and 5G mobile coverage. Digital infrastructure minister Matt Warman and local government minister Simon Clarke urged councils to follow new Government advice on land access and valuations so deals granting access for new infrastructure, such as 5G masts and full fibre broadband cabinets on public land, can be reached ‘quicker and with reasonable rents attached.’ The Government has also shared new guidance on the safety and benefits of 5G so that councils can give people the facts and tackle disinformation about this new mobile technology. ‘We want to help people get access to fast and reliable connectivity. It is a top priority for this Government,’ said Mr Warman. ‘Councils have a vital role to play in the rollout of digital infrastructure and while there is good work going on up and down the country, there is more we can do. ‘Today I’m writing to local authorities with new guidance and advice to help them break down some of the barriers to rollout and give them the tools they need to quell quack theories about 5G.’