Alan Reid MP calls for Highlands and Islands broadband progress

Tuesday, February 26th 2013
The Highlands and Islands need faster broadband soon, according to Argyll and Bute MP Alan Reid.
Alan Reid MP calls for Highlands and Islands broadband progress
Argyll and Bute MP Alan Reid has expressed his frustration that a contract to roll out super-fast broadband across Scotland's Highlands and Islands has still not been signed.

The £120 million deal between BT and Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) was announced last June, with the project set to involve the installation of underground cables and - in some cases - subsea cables to connect remote island communities.

However, HIE's strategic engagements manager Claire Ross told Mr Reid that finalising the deal has proved to be "difficult and time-consuming" due to its sheer scale, reports the Buteman.

Mr Reid said the news is disappointing given the vital importance of delivering super-fast broadband connectivity across the region.

"The UK government gave HIE money for broadband infrastructure two-and-a-half years ago," he pointed out.

"It's high time they spent it to bring broadband to those communities without it."

The MP added that he has asked for an explanation on these "repeated delays" and has urged HIE to get the work started as soon as possible.

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