The Queen’s Speech brought forward measures to create the right for every household to access high speed broadband through a new broadband Universal Service Obligation
The Government’s broadband Universal Service Obligation will bring broadband to the remaining 5% hardest-to-reach areas. People and businesses in those areas will have a legal entitlement to request fast broadband, and up to a reasonable cost threshold, they must be provided with it.
This legislation will also set ambition for speeds of 10mbps for the final 5%. This is the speed needed to meet the demands of today’s typical family and many small businesses.
Victoria said,
“Rural broadband was my first campaign as a newly-selected candidate and it continues to be the focus of my attention because it is so important in modern-day life. I am Vice-Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on this topic and we have recently made significant progress by persuading the Government of the need for a Universal Services Obligation.
I am pleased that the Government has continued to listen to Members of Parliament from rural areas. The impact of our lobbying was seen in the announcement in the Queen’s Speech that the Universal Service Obligation for broadband will be extended to the remaining 5% hardest-to-reach areas. This means people and businesses in those areas will have a legal entitlement to request fast broadband, and up to a reasonable cost threshold, they must be provided with it.
The provision of broadband is improving across the constituency, but there is more to be done. I have personally discussed the situation with local residents of many affected villages, Steve Brooks of OnLincolnshire and Cllr Craig Leyland, leader of East Lindsey District Council,, to address the local "not-spots" of broadband. Rural areas need broadband just as much as urban areas and I will not stop pressing for a better deal for residents of Maltby le Marsh, Kirkby on Bain and all other villages in a similar position.
Following on from the success of my Flood Forum, I will hold a broadband summit for local residents and businesses later in the year to enable them to raise concerns with the experts.”
Watch the full video of Her Majesty's Gracious Speech below.
Photo credit: Pool/Getting Images
