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The UK government must take action to fix Scotland’s ‘unacceptable’ mobile phone coverage, the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) is set to tell MPs.

Only 17% of Scotland’s geography has 4G mobile coverage, compared to 60% south of the border according to official figures.  

The FSB is giving evidence to Scottish Affairs Committee inquiry into digital coverage on Monday.

The small business campaign group argues that Scotland-specific coverage obligations should be attached to future mobile spectrum sales.

Andy Willox, FSB’s Scottish policy convenor, said: “It doesn’t matter if you’re a corporate high flyer, a local tradesperson or an international tourist, Scotland’s spotty mobile connectivity results in missed opportunities and wasted time.

“While some allowances could be made for differences in geography and population density, these figures show that the gap between Scotland and England is unacceptably wide – as it has been for some time.

“Ofcom have suggested that nation specific coverage obligations might be a means to address this embarrassing problem. The Scottish Affairs Committee must push the UK Government to take up this proposal.”

He added: “Improving Scotland’s historically patchy digital infrastructure is a top priority for Scotland’s business community.

“Therefore, politicians from across the political spectrum must work constructively to develop realistic plans which deliver for local economies and communities.”

Scotland's 'unacceptable' mobile coverage criticised

2 February 2018