It was hoped that by providing open access to dark fibre would encourage increased competition in the market, as it reduces the costs for smaller players.

However, the government has now issued a response that completely dismisses the proposals.

It said that it is "content with the position on access to infrastructure" and that "rather than expediting Broadband Delivery UK's (BDUK) programme, mandating the provision of dark fibre is likely to impede progress".

"BDUK has sought to ensure the right balance is struck between competition and value for money. The government does not therefore anticipate that the Commission will mandate dark fibre as a specified access product," reads the response.

It continues: "Placing that additional requirement (in addition to a passive infrastructure access product) on suppliers would be likely to significantly increase the cost of delivery with no clearly identified additional competitive benefit."