Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment he has made of the potential merits of providing financial support to independent businesses who have limited internet access.

The government recognises the importance of digital connectivity both to the economy and to people’s lives and is committed to delivering nationwide gigabit-capable broadband as soon as possible. At Budget we committed £5 billion to support its rollout in the hardest to reach areas. This will benefit homes and businesses across the UK. In addition, we are currently providing vouchers worth up to £3,500 to rural businesses to help them pay connection fees for gigabit-capable broadband.

Furthermore, this autumn the Chancellor has announced a targeted package of measures to support jobs and business through the winter months following the introduction of further measures to control the spread of COVID-19.