Harriet Baldwin MP says EC approval of BDUK framework is imminent

European approval for the government's Broadband Delivery UK (BDUK) framework is imminent, according to West Worcestershire MP Harriet Baldwin.

The multimillion-pound BDUK scheme has been delayed as the European Commission (EC) investigates whether it infringes laws on illegal state aid.

Concerns were raised after BT and Fujitsu were left as the only providers approved to bid for BDUK work, with BT so far winning every contract under the framework.

However, Ms Baldwin said it is expected that the EC will rubber stamp the government's broadband plans sooner rather than later, reports the Worcester News.

Her comments were supported by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, which said approval for the framework is likely to come presently.

Paul Conroy, a spokesman for the department, stated: "It's fair to say that we had expected to hear [from the European Commission] by now - but we expect to hear shortly.

"We expect it will be resolved and given state aid approval."

Worcestershire County Council's cabinet member for economy and infrastructure Simon Geraghty said a rapid decision is needed, as the amount of work required on the UK's broadband infrastructure between now and 2015 is sizeable.