Mobile networks are urging the Government to cut red tape and taxes for network infrastructure.
Mobile UK, the group that represents EE, O2, Three, and Vodafone, wants the Government to focus on helping them improve mobile infrastructure.
Mobile Infrastructure Investment: The UK’s Route to Growth” is a report by Assembly Research that shows that for every £1 spent on better mobile networks, the wider economy could benefit by up to £5. They say investing in mobile isn’t just good for phone users—it’s good for jobs, businesses, and the country as a whole.
The report recommends, implementing the Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure Act 2022, a business rates holiday on new mobile infrastructure, evolving the UK’s net neutrality regime, supporting operators’ plans to switch off 2G services, and appointing digital champions to help expedite 5G rollouts , tackling not-spots via the Shared Rural Network programme., aligning with European policy reforms aimed at
Repurposing Above-Ground Level Facilities like buildings, towers, lamp posts, rooftops, or other elevated infrastructure, and adapting them for use in mobile network deployment, revising planning rules to facilitate network deployment
While the Government has done a lot to support broadband internet in homes, Mobile UK says it now needs to do the same for mobile phone networks.
The report suggests slashing red tape, making it easier to build phone masts and improve coverage, and offering tax breaks to encourage more investment. supporting the rollout of faster 5G networks, especially in rural areas. and helping switch off 2G networks.
Mobile UK head Hamish MacLeod said:
“The Government has identified growth as its top priority and called on the UK’s telecoms industry to help strengthen the economy. The Government must prioritise mobile infrastructure, enabling operators to accelerate investment in coverage and capacity. This will be fundamental to underpinning growth and fostering innovation throughout the UK economy, and the upcoming Spending Review and Infrastructure Strategy are key moments to demonstrate this commitment.”
