This week I wrote to the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport regarding broadband access and speed in Barnsley East, after research showed our constituency is being left behind.
Independent analysis has shown that amongst other concerns, average broadband speeds in Barnsley are 20% below the national average, whilst rates of access to superfast and full fibre also lag behind.
Access to fast and reliable broadband is absolutely essential to the way of life for so many people and businesses in our community.
Sub-standard broadband risks stunting the growth of local businesses as they trail competitors elsewhere, and digital exclusion can be devastating for those who rely on the internet for necessities like arranging health appointments or applying for welfare payments.
So I’ve written to the Government to demand answers on what steps they intend to take to prevent Barnsley East being held back by a lack of high quality broadband for any longer.
The full report on broadband speeds can be found here.
