A north MP has put pressure on the UK government to guarantee improved mobile phone coverage in the Highlands and islands.
Ian Blackford, the SNP MP for Ross, Skye and Lochaber, has raised the issue with culture, media and sport minister Ed Vaizey at parliamentary questions.
An Ofcom report published earlier this year found that the Highlands and islands are the worst areas for 3G coverage in the UK, while 24% of Scotland’s land mass currently has no mobile signal at all.
In parliament Mr Blackford said: “The 4G mobile option took no account of Scottish Government proposals to set coverage requirements for each local authority.
“What steps is the minister taking to ensure connectivity across all parts of the UK with 5G licences?
“Does he agree that 5G may be part of a solution to provide superfast broadband in rural areas?”
In response Mr Vaizey said: “I have to say that 5G is some way off, but I am pleased that we are investing in the research.
“The hon. Gentleman may be looking at our plans to clear the 700 MHz spectrum, which will provide even better mobile coverage, but I know that he will rise with me to applaud the licence deal that we did with the mobile operators to get 90% geographical coverage around the UK by the end of 2027, with his interests firmly in our hearts.”
Speaking afterwards Mr Blackford called the minister’s response “wholly inadequate”.
He added: “Communities in Ross, Skye and Lochaber deserve opportunities for effective communication if we are to compete in today’s world.
“The government must go further and faster and make sure that there are both short term enhancements as well as a competitive opportunity for rural areas through 5G.”