Mobile UK, the voice of the UK’s mobile network operators (MNOs), welcomes the release of the Digital Communities All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) report, Reconnecting Britain: Restoring Trust, Connecting Communities and Driving Inclusive Growth.

The report provides a powerful endorsement of the mobile industry’s achievements and its central role in the UK’s economic future. Crucially, the APPG’s findings align with Mobile UK’s core policy objectives, particularly the urgent need for planning reform and the full implementation of the Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure (PSTI) Act.

Celebrating Industry Success in Connecting the Nation

Mobile UK is pleased that the report recognises the "great strides" made in mobile deployment and the "effectiveness of the public-private partnership" in expanding coverage. Despite the challenges of the UK’s varied topography, the industry has delivered exceptional results:

• Record-Breaking Rollout: The Shared Rural Network (SRN) exceeded its key milestone ahead of schedule, with 4G coverage from at least one operator now reaching 96% of the UK landmass.

• Premises Coverage: Mobile connectivity now extends beyond 99% of UK premises, ensuring almost every home and business can access vital digital services.

• Rapid 5G Expansion: 5G coverage outside of premises from at least one operator has already reached between 94% and 97%.

Securing the Future: PSTI Act Implementation

A stable regulatory environment is fundamental to maintaining the UK’s position as a global leader in innovation. Mobile UK notes the report's acknowledgement that the Government has taken significant action regarding the Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure (PSTI) Act 2022, with secondary legislation now made to commence Sections 61 to 64.

However, the industry agrees with the APPG that full implementation remains vital to the rollout of next generation mobile networks. It is essential that this transition occurs within the established timeframes—specifically the 7 April 2026 coming-into-force date—to provide the clarity needed to resolve legacy legal framework issues affecting approximately 16% of mobile sites. Completing this process is a priority to help close the UK's 5G investment gap, estimated between £20 billion and £37 billion.

Unlocking Growth Through Planning Reform

The report identifies that the primary barriers to extending mobile coverage and capacity further are often structural rather than technical. Mobile UK welcomes the APPG’s call for the Government to treat digital infrastructure as critical national infrastructure.

Key findings that support the industry’s call for reform include:

• The Cost of Delay: Speeding up the planning process by just three months could result in the deployment of 1,600 additional 5G cells by 2030.

• Empowering Local Authorities: The report highlights that "Digital Champions" are essential; areas with dedicated digital leadership experience progress at a rate four times greater than those without.

• Addressing Inconsistency: The APPG notes that many initial planning refusals are based on "weak or uninformed grounds," with operators winning 85-90% of appeals in court.

The Economic Value of a Connected Britain

The APPG report makes it clear: digital connectivity is the "backbone" of economic renewal. The potential rewards for a fully connected UK are immense:

• Productivity Gains: Successful adoption of 5G and full fibre could boost the economy by over £200 billion by 2035.

• 5G Opportunity: Widespread 5G adoption alone is projected to bring a productivity benefit of £159 billion by 2035.

• High Return on Inclusion: Beyond the macro-economy, digital access is essential for social inclusion, with the report noting a potential £9.48 return for every £1 invested in digital inclusion initiatives.

Mobile UK remains committed to working with the Government, Ofcom, and local authorities to ensure that the UK’s world-class mobile infrastructure continues to drive growth and opportunity for all.