Overview

This bill aims to ensure that all children in England eligible for free school meals have access to a broadband internet connection and the necessary equipment (computer, tablet etc.) at home. The Secretary of State will be legally obligated to take all reasonable steps to achieve this.

Description

The bill places a duty on the Secretary of State to guarantee that children eligible for free school meals in England have reliable internet access at home. This includes:

• A broadband connection with a minimum download speed of 10 Mbps and an upload speed of 1 Mbps.
• A suitable device, such as a computer or tablet, capable of connecting to the internet and allowing the child to fully participate in schoolwork that relies on online access.

The definition of "at home" includes the child's usual residence, or all regular residences if they have multiple.

The bill applies to England only and comes into force upon its passage.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify exact figures for government spending. However, significant financial investment will likely be required to provide broadband connections and devices to eligible children, particularly those in areas with limited existing infrastructure.

Groups Affected

The bill will primarily affect:

• Children eligible for free school meals in England: They will potentially benefit from improved access to education and online resources.
• Their families: Families will receive support in bridging the digital divide, potentially leading to improved educational outcomes for their children.
• Government agencies: Significant responsibility rests on the Department for Education and other relevant government bodies to implement and fund the initiative.
• Internet service providers: Increased demand for broadband services may impact their operations.

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