Broadband and Telecommunications Markets : Policy, Regulation, and Oversight

Telecommunications was one of the first markets to become part of what today comprises the regulatory state, shifting risks and rewards towards the private sector, subject to regulation. Parliamentary has oversight of policies, the regulator and subventions from HM Treasury, which are necessary to extend networks beyond what is commercially viable. Her Majesty's Government (HMG) is committed to near universal broadband to meet political demands from rural communities and to ensure access to ‘digital by default’ government services. Parliamentary committees have reviewed the interventions by HMG, especially subventions for network extensions, and the work of the regulatory authority, plus work on cybersecurity and the collection of metadata. The regulatory system, built up over three decades, is too complex for easy oversight and review, with significant parts beyond parliamentary reach