I very much welcome the news that North Yorkshire will receive £4.5 million to trial new 5G mobile technology.
The Mobile Access North Yorkshire (MANY) project will support the development of new technologies, apps and services focused on tourism, mental health, improved coverage for emergency services and environmental management. It is part of a £30 million investment to trial seven 5G projects in rural areas across the country, testing the best ways to bring this next generation technology to more people. This bespoke solution will mean that some of the hardest to reach areas will have connectivity much earlier than previously forecast.
Soon after taking office the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, pledged to level up digital connectivity across the country, in order to end the digital divide between the North and the South and ensure that everyone has the very best connections, wherever they live. £200 million has already been allocated to trial 5G, and Mr Johnson pledged £5 billion during last year’s election to bring gigabit broadband to every home and business across the country by 2025.
5G technology has the potential to bring new investment, jobs and opportunities to Thirsk and Malton and I am delighted that we will benefit from this exciting trial. It is a clear sign that this Conservative Government is determined to ensure that rural areas like ours are not left behind when it comes to very latest digital technology. The Conservatives are determined to bring world-class connectivity to communities across the UK, levelling up opportunities and helping to unleash the full potential of people and businesses, wherever they are based.
I have been campaigning hard for better digital connectivity in the more remote parts of his constituency including successfully leading a campaign in Parliament for a Shared Rural Network, a £1bn scheme that will require providers to share phone masts to improve access. This will increase coverage from the current 62% of the UK landmass to 95% by 2026.
