Rapid responses
Broadband policy
[Re: Think tank slams plan to splash out on UK broadband arms race, yesterday]
This is an essential look at the UK’s costly and ineffective broadband policies. But it fails to recommend immediate policy changes that would result in much-needed, competition for fixed line and mobile internet access. Allowing wholesale internet service providers to lease from BT for both commercial and residential properties, as well as offering competitive access to physical infrastructure are just two proposals. They would see new businesses enter the market and create more competition. Ultimately, it is Ofcom’s responsibility to ensure that broadband competition happens. Until we see a review of Ofcom’s remit, which is unlikely to happen in this government, taxpayers’ money will be wasted on rolling out somewhat superfast broadband by BT, the monopoly incumbent, to some of the country. There is no guarantee that consumers will even take it up.
Dominique Lazanski
[Re: Public understanding of economic principles will decide 2015 election, Friday]
The most depressing thing is that the overwhelming majority seem to think the government is making swingeing cuts. It is not. Although James Frayne is right to recommend a better-framed debate, all the best arguments come to nothing without concerted action.
Rory Maw
TOP TWEETS
Something tells me Nick Clegg’s regular phone-in to “hear what people think” may be a rather short-lived initiative.
@A_Liberty_Rebel
UK car sales have reached a four year high. Could this be a reflection of the poor state of national public transport?
@DelphineMusic
More inflation. My first day in London in 2013, and my train ticket was up by 4 per cent – double the Bank of England inflation target.
@asentance
Joined up government? Its child benefit changes are costly, confusing and complicated. Now it wants to help fund childcare.
@MCUK54