Over the last decade, high-speed internet access has become vital for households and businesses across the UK. According to regulatory reports, the average monthly data consumption per household has tripled since 2018. To prevent a growing digital divide and support rural economic growth, the state has funded initiatives to expand full-fibre broadband networks.
While urban telecommunications are largely funded by private operators, reaching remote areas requires intervention from public sector bodies. Public sector expenditure on digital connectivity schemes can be seen in Table 1.1. This expenditure can be evaluated in relation to the size of the national economy; the UK's GDP was £2,500 billion in the fiscal year 2023/24.
| Year | Expenditure (£ million) |
|---|---|
| 2019/20 | 850 |
| 2020/21 | 920 |
| 2021/22 | 990 |
| 2022/23 | 1,060 |
| 2023/24 | 1,125 |
Using the data in Table 1.1 and the information in Extract 1, calculate public sector expenditure on digital connectivity as a percentage of GDP in 2023/24. Show your working.
