On 30 January 2025, Sir Chris Bryant MP, the UK’s Minister for Data Protection and Telecoms, delivered the keynote address at the TMT World Congress 2025. His speech outlined the Government’s vision for economic growth through advancements in digital infrastructure and technology.[1]
How is the Government integrating economic growth with digital infrastructure?
Sir Chris Bryant emphasised the Government’s commitment to economic growth, highlighting the integral role of digital infrastructure. He stated, ‘Without vision, the people perish. Without a plan, the vision perishes. And without investment, financial, social and personal, the plan perishes’[2], underscoring the importance of connectivity, inclusion, and innovation as pillars for a thriving economy.
What are the latest advances in gigabit broadband and 5G deployment?
Sir Chris highlighted substantial advancements in the UK’s digital infrastructure:[3]
- Gigabit-Capable Broadband Expansion: Over 85 per cent of UK homes and businesses now have access to gigabit-capable broadband, a significant increase from just 10 per cent in 2019. Telecommunications companies are investing £40 billion to achieve 100 per cent coverage by 2030. Recent Project Gigabit contracts with Openreach aim to extend this service to over 130,000 additional homes.
- 5G Network Availability: According to Ofcom, 5G is now accessible outside 95 per cent of homes and businesses across the country. Providers like Vodafone, VMO2, and BT/EE are delivering standalone 5G services, with a goal of nationwide availability by 2030.
How is the UK enhancing data centre capacity to support AI and computing needs?
Addressing the critical role of data centres, Sir Chris noted that the UK currently hosts over 500 facilities, ranking third globally. The Government aims to increase public computing power twentyfold by 2030, as outlined in the AI Opportunities Action Plan, to support the growing demands of artificial intelligence and data processing.[4]
What impact does connectivity have on public services and daily life?
Beyond infrastructure metrics, Sir Chris emphasised the transformative effect of connectivity on individuals’ lives. He provided examples such as the use of standalone 5G in hospitals to transmit high-resolution scans for faster disease diagnosis and the streaming of bodycam videos from police officers to support teams, illustrating how enhanced connectivity can improve public services and safety.[5]
What are the key takeaways from Sir Chris Bryant MP’s speech?
Bryant’s address at the TMT World Congress 2025 highlighted the UK’s strategic initiatives to foster economic growth through substantial investments in digital infrastructure, aiming to create a more connected, inclusive, and innovative society.
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[1] Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, Sir Chris Bryant speech at TMT World Congress 2025, 4 February 2025, Link
[3] Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, Sir Chris Bryant speech at TMT World Congress 2025, 4 February 2025, Link
[4] Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, AI Opportunities Action Plan, 4 February 2025, Link
[5] Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, Sir Chris Bryant speech at TMT World Congress 2025, 4 February 2025, Link
