Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire Member of the Welsh Parliament Angela Burns MS has encouraged constituents struggling to achieve a reliable broadband internet connection to take advantage of their new legal right to request a ‘decent and affordable’ broadband service.

Internet company BT Openreach has recently written to those that they have identified as struggling to achieve a good connection offering a solution to this problem.

According to research the Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire constituency has an above average number of homes and businesses that Ofcom have determined may be eligible.

The USO became law in March 2020 and defines such a connection as a service which has a download speed of at least 10Mbps and an upload speed of at least 1 Mbps, costing no more than £46.10 per month.

Such a connection will enable a good quality experience when accessing all common internet applications including multiple TV streams, HDTV, access to digital public services and on-line shopping.

If the existing infrastructure doesn’t allow this level of service, the USO requires BT to upgrade their connectivity to meet or exceed these requirements if the necessary works cost less than £3,400 per premise.

Commenting Angela said: “Reliable and effective broadband is a key component of our every days lives. With recent events resulting in an ever increasing number of people working from home, a good internet connection is becoming vital.

“This scheme will not apply to the vast majority of local residents, but for those it does apply to, it could be life changing.

“Our society is changing and we rely on the internet for everyday activities. I encourage anyone who feels that this USO scheme run by BT Openreach may apply to them to get in touch with the company on 0800 783 0223 to find out more and confirm their eligibility.

“If you have already received a letter, I encourage you to give the scheme your consideration or contact Openreach to discuss the options available.”