Since 2015, the market for the technology underpinning ESN has matured, so we asked whether ESN is now easier to deliver. The Department agreed that the programme was no longer at the cutting edge of technology.45 It told us that several other countries are now taking a similar approach to ESN, although some use a dedicated network, and others have involved multiple network operators.46 This means that rather than leading the way, the UK can now learn lessons from other countries.47

Since 2015, the market for the technology underpinning ESN has matured, so we asked whether ESN is now easier to deliver. The Department agreed that the programme was no longer at the cutting edge of technology.45 It told us that several other countries are now taking a similar approach to ESN, although some use a dedicated network, and others have involved multiple network operators.46 This means that rather than leading the way, the UK can now learn lessons from other countries.47 Type: conclusion | Number: 15 | Response status: accepted Government response: 1.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target completion date: end of June 2024 following Lot 2 award 1.2 The Independent Assurance Panel (IAP) has worked with the programme for several years and produced a number of reports. It is tasked by, and reports directly to, the Home