The government has unveiled a £7 million fund to support remote areas of the UK and provide them with better access to wireless networks that will underpin the government’s broader mission of developing the rural economy.
The new fund will involve testing new ways of combining satellite, wireless and fixed-line internet connectivity with the aim of providing fast and reliable connectivity to remote areas for the first time, helping to support the likes of farmers and tourism businesses.
This investment follows the Government’s £8 million grant scheme announced earlier this year which committed to delivering improved, high-speed broadband via satellite connection to up to 35,000 homes in most rural areas of the UK, accelerating broadband by 10 times.
Rural areas currently contribute 15 per cent to the UK economy and the government hopes to support these communities in all areas, including housing, transport, digital connectivity and jobs, with the aim of providing better opportunities.
Elizabeth Anderson, Interim CEO Digital Poverty AllianceHe commented: “It’s great to see the government taking more steps to support the drive to provide connectivity and digital access for all. For some, access to wireless networks is an everyday norm, however, for millions it is currently out of reach, leading to exclusion and employment As a major barrier when looking for jobs, or trying to use services that are now popular online too.Like many other tasks that require digital access.
The launch of this new fund coincides with the launch of the National Implementation Plan by the Department of Political Affairs, which identifies 6 core tasks for eradicating digital poverty. Digital technology plays a huge role in people’s lives, affecting our ability to learn, share and interact, highlighting the vital importance of demonstrating that everyone has digital access. While it is great to see the government taking steps in the right direction, we must all do more to support those who lack access in the hope of full connectivity in the UK in the years to come. We must also remember that digital inclusion is about more than just connectivity, as hardware, skills and trust in online services are all vital.”
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: “I have pledged to build a better future for the people of this country, and our rural communities are at the heart of that promise.
“That is why I am determined to make sure that their interests are front and center in all our work to grow the economy and strengthen our communities – so that every part of our country gets the support it needs to grow.”
