Millions more families could get access to cheaper broadband under Labour’s plans for social tariffs – low cost packages to help low income families get and stay online.
According to Ofcom, a record 8 million households are having difficulty affording communications services including broadband bills, and only 3% of those eligible for social tariffs have signed up.
As part of Labour’s 3 point plan for affordable broadband, to help struggling families manage the Conservative cost of living crisis, the Party has called for government to stop inflation busting increases for wholesale broadband, for Ofcom to strengthen consumer protections so broadband customers aren’t ripped off, and for an industry wide social tariff for low-income families. This would mean that, in London, at least 771,000 people could get access to a lower rate on their broadband.
Family bills are already rocketing because of an economic crisis made in Downing Street. With social tariffs worth an annual saving of £144 per year on average, Labour’s cost of living plan would help more families get connected, and save them from the choice between an internet connection and other essentials like food and clothing.
Broadband is the newest utility, an essential for everyday life, not a luxury. Without access to the online world, children can’t do homework, parents can’t access the labour market, social security, or the best rates for services or goods, and grandparents can’t stay in touch face to face with family over distances.
Labour is calling for industry including wholesalers like Openreach to work with Ofcom and consumer groups to develop a mandatory well-advertised broadband social tariff for low-income families, or the Party will set and legislate for one in government.
Steph Peacock MP, Shadow Minister for Media, Data, and Digital Infrastructure, said:
“Broadband is essential to modern life, but too many families struggle to afford it. The Tory economic crisis means, without action, prices could rise eye-wateringly fast.
“While the Tories crash the economy, Labour’s plan would help thousands of people in London afford broadband, and encourage more families to get connected.”