Government failing to connect rural areas - Farron

A national report today into mobile phone connectivity highlights how the government is leaving rural communities behind. While the report focuses on a lack of 4G coverage, South Lakes MP Tim Farron has pointed out that "basic phone signal would be a welcome start in many rural areas".

A report by the National Infrastructure Commission shows that 4G coverage is worse in the UK than in Panama, Peru and Romania. The report says that the UK must look at how it can roll out 5G coverage across the country and ensure better coverage.

Tim said: "Mobile phone coverage, including internet connectivity, is vital for residents and businesses alike. However, for many residents in rural areas, the idea of 4G or 5G is nothing but a pipe dream. In places where there isn't any mobile phone signal at all, talk of expanding 5G completely misses the point. Even basic phone signal would be a welcome start in many rural areas. The government has repeatedly talked the talk about connecting rural areas, but has failed to back this up with action."