Government confirms scrapping of broadband tax in Budget

The Government has confirmed that it will scrap the broadband tax that had been proposed by the previous Labour Government – even before it is introduced.  Labour had proposed charging 50p for every landline to pay for the roll-out of next-generation broadband.  The new Government has instead proposed that the private sector funds the infrastructure development.  The Government will set aside some money for rolling out in rural areas.  Although there is a lack of money, the Government promised that it was fully committed to improving broadband.  Just how it will be so committed when the purse strings are very tight remains to be seen!