THURSO AND STONE LAUNCH CAMPAIGN FOR BROADBAND IN THE NORTH

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 24th Apr 2002

Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross MP and MSP, John Thurso and Jamie Stone are this week calling for multi-agency support to help deliver broadband to the North Highlands. They are seeking the assistance of both Government and the private sector in securing the technology which they believe is essential if the area is to safeguard existing jobs and promote new employment potential within the communications industry.

John Thurso said:

"Broadband presents both risk and opportunity. The risk is that if we leave matters entirely to the private sector, areas such as the Far North will be a long time waiting for broadband and this will have a negative impact on jobs. The opportunity is the opening we now have to persuade Government to invest in appropriate infrastructure which could prove a valuable gateway to future job and wealth creation."

Jamie Stone said:

"A dynamic e-economy is a key plank in "Smart, successful Scotland". Affordable broadband access will be vital if this strategy is to be successfully delivered in the North. It is a great opportunity, but one which we miss at our peril".

John Thurso has already raised the issue of broadband availability in remoter areas during the course of the Communications inquiry currently being undertaken by the House of Commons Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee. Jamie Stone has similarly made representations to the Minister for Enterprise at the Scottish Executive.

In a joint submission to the Enterprise Network and Highland Council, the MPs are seeking meetings with Sandy Cumming of HIE and Council Convenor, David Green.