LOCAL MP WARNS GOVERNMENT AGAINST 'DIGITAL DIVIDE' FOR BROADBAND PROVISION

11.10.39pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 26th Jul 2010

The MP for St Austell & Newquay, Stephen Gilbert, has probed the Government about provision of superfast broadband in Cornwall during a Parliamentary Question today.

During the Department for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport Questions today, MP Gilbert asked "What steps [the minister] is taking to increase provision of superfast broadband in Cornwall".

Stephen welcomed the Minister's response which pledged that the Government would ensure an equal roll out of superfast broadband for urban and rural communities, like Cornwall.

Commenting after the question, Stephen Gilbert said:

"In this day, the provision of fast and reliable broadband is, quite literally, a lifeline for so many businesses in Cornwall. In the 21st century, the last thing we need is a 'Digital Divide' between urban and rural areas.

"As the Government rolls out the new, superfast broadband, it is vital that the provision reaches remote areas at the same time as more populated areas and I thank the Minister for making the Coalition Government's commitment to this clear in the House of Commons today."