THE CLA has welcomed a statement by Leader of the Opposition, David Cameron, saying that the Conservatives would facilitate a fibre optic broadband network, if elected.

we believe Mr Cameron could go further in helping the nirvana of UK-wide fibre optic broadband become more than a dream by making a commitment to significant public
investment

Douglas Chalmers - CLA North

But the CLA says it will continue to push for public sector investment in this network.

Douglas Chalmers, Director CLA North said: “It is good to know that all the major parties are now supporting what we have been calling for over the last six years - high speed communications for all via a fibre optic network.

“But we believe Mr Cameron could go further in helping the nirvana of UK-wide fibre optic broadband become more than a dream by making a commitment to significant public investment.

“Fibre optic in rural areas would be a huge step towards reducing the current social and economic divide resulting from an often poor - and sometimes unavailable - broadband service. As both the public and private sector encourage us to do business on-line, it is clear that investment from both the public and private sector is the only way forward.

“At a time when we must encourage and actively support businesses to kickstart our country’s economy, we must ensure that rural businesses have the ability to perform and compete against anyone, wherever they are”.