Broadband commitment from finance secretary

Orkney MSP Liam McArthur has welcomed a commitment from the finance secretary, John Swinney, to look at two ways in which broadband coverage in the islands might be improved.

Mr McArthur said:  “Improving access to high quality broadband to households and businesses in Orkney is crucially important. Both Scotland’s governments, along with their partners, have committed significant resources to making this happen.

“While Mr Swinney was unable to say precisely when details would be announced of the broadband roll out programme in Orkney, he did make clear that the work is already under way and shout be complete by 2015.

“Meantime, I am pleased that he committed to ensuring that Highlands & Islands Enterprise and BT do engage with community groups about how any remaining gaps in the broadband network can be plugged.”