OFCOM CHAIR ELECT SUPPORTS BROADBAND UNIVERSAL SERVICE OBLIGATION.

OFCOM CHAIR ELECT SUPPORTS BROADBAND UNIVERSAL SERVICE OBLIGATION.

MANY SCOTTISH CONSUMERS URGENTLY NEED CONNECTION OR UPGRADES

Mike Weir MP has welcomed a statement from Dr Colette Bowe, chair elect of Ofcom, indicating support for a universal service obligation for broadband. The SNP BERR spokesperson says this will be of huge benefit to Scotland.

Dr Bowe was questioned by Mr Weir today (Tuesday) on the extension of broadband services at her pre-appointment hearing before a joint session of the Business and Enterprise and Culture, Media and Sport Select Committees.

Dr Bowe told the committee that broadband was one of her priorities. Mr Weir asked her how to tackle the poor service or complete lack of service in many rural areas. Dr Bowe responded by saying she favoured a universal service obligation for broadband services.

There has been a long running campaign for greater access to broadband in rural areas of Scotland, many of which cannot receive it or have speeds little better than dial up services.

Commenting, Mr Weir said this was a very significant development.

“At present, only the Royal Mail is under a duty to provide a universal service obligation in connection with postal services. Broadband is of increasing importance to many businesses and individuals yet there is a huge variation in the quality of service, which very much depends on where you live and the distance from the exchange.

“Many consumers in rural areas of Scotland cannot get broadband at all, or can only get it at speeds that are no better than old style dial up services, despite the fact that exchanges have been upgraded.

“I was delighted that Dr Bowe voiced her support for a universal service obligation which would ensure that everyone had access to broadband. I will be taking a close interest to ensure that this point is pressed home to government and look forward to seeing how she pushes the idea through Ofcom.

“This must, however, be allied to an obligation to upgrade systems, and particularly the existing links from exchanges to homes, to ensure that everyone can receive high speed broadband. Where alternative technology is required, it should be provided.”