Broadband for the Rural North campaign

Early day motion 446, tabled 20 September 2021 by Tim Farron (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 3 members.

That this House commends Broadband for the Rural North’s (B4RN) non-profit, community-led approach to developing Fibre To the Premises (FTTP) networks, which has connected 9000 properties across Cumbria, Lancashire and Northumberland; notes the Government’s intention to deliver a minimum of 85 per cent gigabit-capable coverage across the UK by 2025 through Project Gigabit; realises that the model of community-led ISPs, such as B4RN, do not fit with the conditions placed upon Regional and Local suppliers through Project Gigabit; further notes that the deadline for individuals to register for the Voucher Scheme is 24th September 2021; and calls on the Government to ensure the future of Community Benefit Society ISPs by moving areas where they are already actively engaged into Conditional White procurement categories.

Signatures by party: DUP 1, Labour 1, Liberal Democrat 1.