Question No: 2025/0986
Question (Thomas Turrell AM | Bexley and Bromley): 20th March 2025
As set out in DD2710, there was a plan that the sub-regions would continue seeking other sources of funding to replace GLA funding over time and within the indicative plans for 2025-26 and 2026-27 to continue the current GLA contribution. How much funding is earmarked for the following years despite the Directorate Decision suggesting there needs to be a reduction of GLA funding 'over time'?
Answer (Sir Sadiq Khan | Mayor of London): 25th March 2025
Since being in place, the sub-regional digital champions have provided significant benefits to their regions. They have provided vital resource for boroughs who have no statutory responsibility or funding to help generate over £1 billion of private investment realising an uplift of full fibre of availability from 4% in 2017 to 71% today. They’ve helped deliver digital infrastructure strategies, directed investment to connect over 1,000 public sector sites, and facilitated agreements for mobile connectivity. All these efforts have contributed to increased investment in London’s fibre and mobile infrastructure.
I have supported Industry calls for digital champion funding from the Government. The funding for these posts is due to continue until an alternative source of funding can be identified.
Question No: 2025/0987
Question (Thomas Turrell AM | Bexley and Bromley): 20th March 2025
What is the current fibre coverage in 2025, and is there a longer-term plan to reach 100% coverage and by when?
Answer (Sir Sadiq Khan | Mayor of London): 25th March 2025
The latest data from the regulator, Ofcom, reports to July 24 and shows London having 66% full fibre coverage and 87% gigabit capable coverage. Gigabit capable coverage includes both full fibre networks and Virgin Media’s Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification (DOCSIS) network. The Government’s target is to reach gigabit capable broadband across 85% of the UK by 2025 and nationwide by 2030.
Question No: 2025/0988
Question (Thomas Turrell AM | Bexley and Bromley): 20th March 2025
How many people have attended the Get Online London training hubs?
Answer (Sir Sadiq Khan | Mayor of London): 25th March 2025
As of December 2024, 56,101 Londoners were recorded as having attended one of 1,106 Get Online London Digital Inclusions Hubs across London. Londoners received a range of support such as access to free SIM cards, free refurbished devices andor skills support using a digital skills learning tool called Learn My Way. Data from Good Things Foundation shows an additional 67,757 Londoners have indirectly benefitted from those Londoners who have received support for the programme. The programme target is to support 75,000 Londoners during the 3-year programme.
