NEWS RELEASE For Immediate Use 16 September 2009 DEMAND FOR NEW BROADBAND TECHNOLOGY TO TAYSIDE New broadband technology that delivers broadband to homes that are too far away from their local broadband exchanges must be rolled out in Highland Perthshire and the Angus Glens as soon as possible: that is the demand from MSP Murdo Fraser to the Scottish Government after a successful trial of the new technology in the Highlands. Broadband Enabling Technology (BET) allows homes that are currently too far away from their local exchange to receive a broadband service. BET is capable of delivering a stable broadband service over lines that are up to 12km away from the exchange. This is more than double the current 5km limit for broadband. The Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP has lodged a parliamentary question in the Scottish Parliament asking the Scottish Government to outline when Angus and Perth & Kinross will see this new technology. Commenting, Murdo said: “It is welcome news that Broadband Enabling Technology, which can deliver broadband to ‘not-spots’ or homes that are too far away from a local exchange, has had a successful trial in the Highlands. I want this new technology to be installed in Angus and Perth & Kinross as soon as possible and I have lodged a parliamentary question to the Scottish Government to find out when we will be able to access it. “There are a number of homes and businesses in the Angus Glens and the Highland Perthshire that still require broadband connection and it is vital that they are able to be broadband-enabled. At the moment, parts of Tayside are being left behind as our cities and other parts of the country are being given the opportunity for even faster broadband services. “There is a two-tier communication system in Scotland and it is extremely frustrating for individuals and businesses in Angus and Perthshire who can not get broadband connectivity at all. The Scottish Government must make Tayside a priority for broadband connectivity and introduce this new technology so that the Angus Glens and Highland Perthshire is broadband enabled.” ENDS   back to top of page