Govt names Easynet as BB supplier

Easynet Group has been named as one of six companies given the clearance to provide broadband services to the public sector.

OGCbuying.solutions - an agency of the Office of Government Commerce - has said that the pan-European broadband provider can offer broadband services to the public sector under a new framework agreement.

In practical terms, it means that public sector organisations and departments looking to get broadband services can go to suppliers already vetted by the Government's procurement arm.

Plus, those looking to purchase broadband services, kit and consultancy will also get help and advice about what they need.

Easynet - which is one of the few companies to persevere with local loop unbundling (LLU) - says it is "over the moon" with the decision that gives it access to public sector spending on broadband that could amount to around a £1bn over the next three years.

Shares in Easynet were up 5.5p (6 per cent) at 96.5p by early afternoon.

A spokesman for the OGC said that a formal announcement about all six companies would be made next week. BT and Telewest are expected to be among those singled out by the Government for the provision of broadband to the public sector. ®