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Chief Minister says broadband is a necessity

Tue, 01 Nov 2016

The Chief Minister says broadband should be seen as a necessary utility alongside water, electric and fuel.

Howard Quayle's comments come after being asked about phone and internet coverage in the Island's more rural areas in this week's sitting of the House of Keys.

The Middle MHK confirmed that the Island is well-served in rural areas compared to the UK, but that more must be done to improve quality and speed for those living outside the main towns.

A recent study into the Island's internet infrastructure confirmed that speeds in rural areas can be slow, particularly at peak times.

The report recommends talking to telecoms operators to find solutions and developing a programme to measure broadband speeds, which Mr Quayle says he will ask the Department of Economic Development to implement.

All properties on the Island can get fixed line voice and broadband services, while 91% of homes can get a high speed VDSL internet connection.

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