In a debate in the House of Commons, Victoria Atkins MP has called on the government to hold a “Not-Spot” Summit to address variations in fixed and mobile broadband across the county.
Victoria said:
“I have campaigned for improved access to broadband in the constituency of Louth & Horncastle before, during and after the General Election Campaign.
Since then, I have made the case in the House of Common and in meetings with BT themselves that the provision of superfast broadband in Louth & Horncastle must be a priority.
It is simply not acceptable that in this day and age there are parts of our area that do not have access to broadband, let alone superfast broadband.
This has a profoundly negative impact on my constituents who are unable to access services such as online banking, the Rural Payment Scheme, VAT and Tax returns and emails which are important in modern-day life.
It also affects the performance of local businesses. We are currently working hard to create a thriving economy here in Louth & Horncastle and local companies are being held back at a time when they most need our support.
During the debate, I gave the example of Millhouse Manufacturers in Kirkby-on-Bain which employs 25 people locally and has invested in new technologies to obtain superfast broadband.
As such, I welcome the action our Government is taking on the subject of rural broadband cover and have invited the Minister to Louth & Horncastle to show him why local residents and businesses need help.”
The full debate and Victoria’s speech may be accessed at the link below: