John Lamont MP recently attended a parliamentary event to support faster improvements to mobile connectivity which would be of huge benefit to residents in the Scottish Borders and boost the UK economy.
The event was organised by Speed Up Britain, a cross-industry organisation working to deliver better mobile connectivity across the UK through targeted changes to the Electronic Communications Code and working with landowners.
Improved coverage of 4G and 5G is vital for local residents and businesses. The UK Government aims to deliver this to the Borders as quickly as possible, with work already underway in many areas.
Mr Lamont is pleased to support improvements to the UK’s mobile connectivity, and hopes it will enable both the Shared Rural Network (which will deliver 4G coverage to 95% of the UK) and next-generation 5G technology.
John Lamont MP said:
“I am delighted to have attended Speed Up Britain’s event in Parliament. Improving mobile connectivity can bring great benefits to the Borders, and I was pleased to be able to join colleagues at the event highlighting the importance of this issue.
“The pandemic has highlighted just how vital mobile connectivity is for the thousands of residents and businesses across the Borders. This is a key priority for me as I represent a rural constituency that often suffers from poor connectivity.
“I look forward to the forthcoming Product Security and Telecommunications Bill which I am hopeful will deliver the changes necessary to ensure we can accelerate the roll out of improved mobile connectivity as quickly as possible.”
Rt Hon Patricia Hewitt, Chair of Speed Up Britain, said:
“The need for improved mobile coverage is pressing but, without changes to the Electronic Communications Code, communities in the Borders risk missing out on the benefits that better connectivity will bring.
