South Craven MP 'delighted' at plans to boost mobile cover (From Keighley News)
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South Craven MP 'delighted' at plans to boost mobile cover
10:00am Monday 1st October 2012 in News
South Craven MP Julian Smith has welcomed moves to bring improved mobile phone coverage to rural areas.
Regulator Ofcom has announced auction plans that will see broadband rolled out to an estimated 98 per cent of the UK population.
Mr Smith has helped spearhead a parliamentary campaign to boost mobile coverage, with up to six million people – particularly those living in rural parts of Britain – currently excluded.
The long-awaited auction will start later this year but bidding will not begin until early 2013.
OFCOM said it expected consumers to start obtaining services late next year.
Many homes, schools, farms and businesses will get good access to mobile and internet coverage for the first time.
Mr Smith said: “I am delighted that this decision has been taken. Combined with a £70 million investment in super-fast broadband, this will ensure that North Yorkshire will be fully connected whether in mobile or fixed line.”
