A Cumbrian MP has been appointed as the UK’s first Rural Connectivity Champion by the Government.
Simon Fell, who represents Barrow and Furness, has been appointed to the new role following the launch of the Government’s Rural Statement this week.
Mr Fell will support rural businesses to access and adopt the digital connectivity they need to encourage commercial investment in 5G and support economic growth, he said.
He will organise meetings for rural businesses and the telecoms industry to support adoption of digital connectivity in sectors such as agriculture and develop, in partnership with rural firms, a clear understanding of what connectivity is needed to drive innovation and growth up and down the country.
Mr Fell said: “I am honoured to have been asked to take up the role of Rural Connectivity Champion. Poor connectivity is holding back too many rural communities and businesses, as my own farmers and businesses in Barrow and Furness will attest.
“If we hope to unlock growth, and to ensure that our rural communities are sustainable, then the government has got to work hand in glove with local government and the private sector to deliver better connectivity. I look forward to leading that work across government and the country.”
Mr Fell will also support rural communities and businesses in removing local barriers for the deployment of 5G, gigabit broadband and more, while driving local leadership and co-ordination into the local authorities that make development decisions.
