South of Scotland MSP Emma Harper has welcomed plans by the Scottish Government that will increase and improve mobile coverage in the most rural and remote areas of Scotland.
Despite the matter being reserved to Westminster – the Scottish Government will be making further efforts as part of its Mobile Action Plan to increase 4G mobile coverage – and begin the process of installing 5G ready infrastructure.
The announcement was made Sunday by the newly appointed Cabinet Secretary for Rural Economy and Connectivity – Fergus Ewing.
Mr Ewing said:
“Ensuring high quality digital connectivity for people across Scotland is a priority for the Scottish Government. That is why we are doing everything we can to improve the case for investment in Scotland, despite this being the responsibility of the UK Government.
“We have set out an ambition for the availability of world class digital connectivity across the country, and we recognise that improved mobile connectivity is an integral part of delivering that ambition.
“We have been working closely with the UK mobile network operators, and they have demonstrated a clear commitment to maximising coverage. Already significant progress is being made towards meeting 4G coverage obligations, but we collectively recognise that coverage gaps will still remain in some of the most rural and remote areas.
“We will identify where those gaps will be after the commercial rollout, and together with the industry will jointly design technology solutions and business models that will allow services to be delivered by operators in a sustainable way.”
South Scotland MSP Emma Harper added:
“The strategy laid out by the Cabinet Secretary will help to ensure the Scottish Government uses its powers to guarantee people benefit from better mobile coverage, even though the primary responsibility lies with the UK Government.
“I am only too aware of how important good quality mobile coverage is in rural areas. It is integral to every sector – from small businesses, to healthcare.
“I am pleased that the Scottish Government is taking further steps towards achieving world class digital connectivity across Scotland – and that specific solutions will be identified to help us achieve this in rural areas. I look forward to working with the government, and other stakeholders as this process continues.
