Minister for Digital Infrastructure, Matt Warman MP, has written to telecommunications regulator, Ofcom about his concerns about people getting excessive quotes for broadband in rural areas.
It comes after a Cumbrian farmer was quoted over £100,000 for a 10mb/s broadband connection. His farm was 3km from the nearest usable network which is why BT said it would be so expensive.
The UK Government has made it a priority to install fibre broadband to every home and business by 2025. Homes and business premises can use broadband vouchers up to £3,500 to support the cost of installing new gigabit-capable connections.
The Scottish Government have also pledged that everyone in Scotland will have superfast broadband, but this has now been delayed by over two years.
John Lamont MP said: “A good broadband connection is really important, especially for businesses in a rural area.
“I have heard stories of lots of people getting ridiculous quotes in the Borders for broadband. It’s a welcome move that the UK Government is going to put a stop to that. Anyone experiencing similar problems should get in touch with me and I’ll do my best to help.
“Rural areas should not be forgotten when it comes to receiving fibre broadband. Both the UK and Scottish Governments have work to do to ensure that areas like the Borders are not left behind.”
