Northern Isles MP, Alistair Carmichael, has questioned the UK Government’s priorities after it unveiled a £1billion boost for digital infrastructure.
The money, which will be announced in today’s Autumn Statement, includes financial support for a new wave of 5G trials to improve mobile connectivity.
It will also be invested in improving access to faster gold standard ‘full-fibre’ broadband.
This has the capacity to reach speeds of more than 1Gps, which could allow users to download an entire series of Game of Thrones in less than a minute.
Mr Carmichael insisted he agreed the UK should lead the world in digital connectivity, describing the funding for the roll-out as a “vital part of that puzzle”.
But he added: “Many of my constituents who still struggle to get a phone signal in their homes at all, let alone mobile internet connectivity, will be frustrated that the government is investing money in new technology while they are being left behind.
“This money would be better spent bringing rural communities like the northern isles up to 3G or even 4G rather than giving yet more to the densely populated areas who already have great mobile internet.”
SNP Highland MP Drew Hendry, who has campaigned repeatedly on this issue, will also be keen to ensure rural areas are not left behind.
The Highland MP has previously accused the Conservatives of being “short-sighted and blinkered” in their attitude to propelling the future of mobile technology.
He has also suggested including 5G in rural areas in the universal service obligation (USO).
The Autumn Statement is scheduled to place infrastructure at the heart of plans to boost productivity.