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email this page to a friendTHE CLA in the North is delighted by media reports that the Government is planning a universal service obligation for broadband.
If this really is affordable, effective broadband for all - even at the end of rural phone lines - it is great news, but we need to know how it will be delivered.
Douglas Chalmers - Country Land and Business Association
If implemented, this would enable everyone in the UK access to broadband up to 2 megabits per second by 2012.
Furthermore - if the details that have so far found their way into the media are correct - reliance on private sector funding may not be the stumbling block it currently is as the government is quoted as saying that, if necessary, it will “impose a solution.”
Douglas Chalmers, Director CLA North said, “Providing a universal service will remove the digital divide that has been disadvantaging rural businesses. This is exactly what the CLA has been lobbying for. However, the Government must realise that this will require major public sector investment. “If this really is affordable, effective broadband for all - even at the end of rural phone lines - it is great news, but we need to know how it will be delivered. Simple statements will not connect rural areas and we still need short term solutions.” The CLA will be seeking an urgent meeting with Lord Carter to ensure rural interests are not left out. This will include CLA concerns as to what happens between now and 2012.
