Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what plans he has to invest in 5G connectivity in the NHS.

Local health and care organisations determine which advanced wireless telecommunications technology is appropriate for local connectivity requirements. We are ensuring all National Health Service premises have access to gigabit capable connectivity and supporting improvements to Wi-Fi performance. In addition, guidance has been provided to the New Hospitals Programme on optimising new build premises for wireless performance. NHS Digital and NHS England are engaging with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport on its overall strategy for the provision of wireless infrastructure, including 5G coverage. NHS Digital has also undertaken research into the benefits of 5G in health and care through sponsoring a trial at the South London and Maudsley Mental Health Trust.