The Government will on Wednesday host a ‘not-spot’ summit to consider ways to address variations in fixed and mobile broadband coverage across the country, following a Parliamentary debate on the issue led by Boston and Skegness MP Matt Warman.
In the debate last October, MPs from each of the main parties raised case studies about access to broadband in their constituencies and the need to ensure proper coverage for the benefit of individuals and businesses in both rural and urban areas. They called on the Government to host a summit to look at ways to solve the coverage problems.
On Wednesday 3rd February, Minister for the Digital Economy Ed Vaizey MP will host representatives from both large and small fixed and mobile broadband providers, and interest groups like the National Farmers’ Union and the Countryside Alliance. Attendees will hear from Broadband Delivery UK about the Government’s delivery plans for tackling not-spots, as well as from BT and EE about their work to improve broadband coverage.
Matt said, “I am pleased that the Government is listening to concerns from MP and other groups about the variations in broadband coverage in both urban and rural areas, and is hosting the ‘not-spot’ summit to look at ways to improve coverage for families and businesses across the country. I have no doubt that the range of internet providers and interested groups will provide for an interesting and productive discussion on what we can all do to ensure better coverage going forward.”
- The Backbench Business debate which called for the summit can be found via the following link: http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201516/cmhansrd/cm151012/debtext/151012-0002.htm#15101217000001