The government will ensure that 2mbps broadband is
delivered to every home in Britain by 2012, communications minister
Lord Carter confirmed today. The pledge is one of 22
recommendations in the government'sDigital Britain reportpublished
today.
The report underlines the importance of the communications
sector, its crucial contribution to the economy, and its role in
building Britain's industrial future, the government said.
Speaking in parliament, culture secretary Andy Burnham said the
22-point action plan outlines a programme of work, which includes a
universal broadband service obligation on service networks and
delivery of a modern wired, wireless and broadcast
infrastructure.
The recommendations include specific proposals on
next-generation networks, universal access to broadband, and
digital content rights.
The report sets out a plan to introduce legislation requiring
ISPs to notify alleged infringers of digital content copyright that
their conduct is unlawful.
Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant at security firm
Sophos said the challenge would be to identify who is really
committing the crime.
"With so many internet users not properly securing their wi-fi
connections, and people feeling jumping on to the net via someone
else’s wi-fi router is acceptable, it has become very difficult to
prove who exactly is infringing on copyrighted material," he
said.
The report sets out a five-point plan to modernise radio
spectrum to encourage the growth of mobile networks.
Other recommendations in the interim report cover commitments to
upgrade and modernise the UK’s broadcast infrastructure, provide
UK-made public service content, and enable widespread online
delivery of public services
The report also sets out plans for the government to engage with
industry in developing broadband service priorities, ahead of the
publication of the final Digital Britain Report, which is due
before the summer.
Carter said the innovation, creativity and vitality of the UK's
communications industries demand clarity from government on its
role and a framework for the future.
"Delivering Digital Britain will depend upon a smart industry,
working with a committed government to produce lasting solutions,"
he said.
Main recommendations of the report:
- A 2mbps universal service obligation on network providers
- A new rights agency to protect online content
- # Internet service providers forced to tell illegal
file-sharers their actions are illegal
- Modernise radio spectrum to increase digital radio
communications
- Provide new systems for parents to use to protect children
against unwanted content.