Carmichael urges residents to sign up to new broadband scheme

Northern Isles MP Alistair Carmichael is urging local people to register with a scheme launched by The Independent Networks Co-operative Association, called “Notspot” for people who want to access better broadband.

The scheme aims to find out where there are gaps in broadband coverage and the information collected will be made available to alternative providers looking for opportunities to serve areas that are left out of BT’s superfast broadband roll out plans

Mr Carmichael said: “This registration scheme collects vital information that can help alternative internet providers to enter the market and offer competition.
“More competition in rural parts of the UK will be crucial in tackling our broadband problems and the better the response to schemes like these the more companies may feel the assurance that their presence is valued and profitable.”

He added: “The UK Government is already investing over £1 billion in superfast broadband across the UK. I have emphasised with ministerial colleagues and BT the need to ensure that there are options available to those in the hardest to reach areas.
“This survey forms part of that discussion and I encourage anyone in the isles with poor quality internet to participate.”