A guaranteed minimum speed for all broadband customers in the UK took a step closer to reality today as the Digital Economy Bill is set to be voted on in the House of Commons today (Tuesday 13th September).
The Bill will seek to introduce a 'Universal Service Obligation' for broadband customers, giving them a legal right to request an affordable internet speed, no matter where they live, by the end of the current Parliament in 2020.
The Second Reading takes place today, at which MPs will debate the general principles of the Bill after which it will proceed to committee stage for amendment.
Local MSP John Lamont said: “Access to the internet shouldn’t be a luxury, but a right. In this day and age, it is absolutely fundamental to life in 21st Century Britain. Too many premises in the Borders are being left behind by poor broadband provision.
“That is why the UK Government is absolutely correct to bring broadband in line with other utilities such as gas, electricity and water and introduce a requirement for providers to connect anyone who requests broadband.
“After record investment in digital infrastructure from the UK Government it is encouraging that we are on track to provide 95% of premises with superfast broadband by the end of next year. Reaching that final 5%, the category which rural areas of the Borders falls under, will be helped significantly by the introduction of a universal service obligation.”