Digital Britain minister Stephen Timms unveiled plans to make rural areas tech savvy, even as he announced his proposal to impose a 50p levy on every fixed-line telephone in the UK. The 50p proposal will have to be approved by the parliament amidst heavy criticism from Conservatives. The additional funds generated will be used for bringing the whole of Britain, particularly its rural areas, under broadband coverage.
Against this setting, British Telecom is said to be in discussion with the government of Scotland regarding the feasibility of upgrading internet availability and accessibility across rural areas around Scotland. Around 50 locations will be identified on basis of internet connection speeds and net access for the upgrade programme.
Local representatives welcomed the announcement and appreciated the government’s acknowledgement of the lack of internet facilities in the rural areas. The programme, once implemented, is expected to put remote locations around Scotland on par with urban areas where high-speed internet is a norm.
A budget of £3m has been allocated for the proposed work. BT Broadband is said to be conducting detailed discussions and analysis of the extent of work involved, and the conclusions are expected to be made public in a week’s time. The upgrade will be especially beneficial to remote areas like the Borders. Speaking at a London event, Stephen Timms reiterated his vision of providing quality internet connectivity to every corner of the nation.
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