In the last few weeks of 2023, there were a few announcements which could have major implications for the delivery of affordable broadband services.

Take a minute to think about how and where you’re reading this. You might be using your mobile data, the train station's free wifi, hotspotting or using your homebroad. The ease of access, the speed of the connection, concerns about privacy and data sharing will no doubt impact your experience. Then there’s the most important consideration: the cost.

It is now hard to argue that internet access is not an essential part of everyday life. Carrying out the tasks of daily life, enjoying entertainment and socialising without reliable and affordable connectivity is a serious challenge. Yet we know that millions of people either don’t have the internet at home, or are struggling to afford their broadband bills.