North-east Fife internet speeds still ‘too slow’, says local MP

Internet providers need to do more to tackle slow broadband speeds in north-east Fife, the area’s MP has claimed.

Stephen Gethins says slow internet speeds in rural parts of the region are hindering local businesses and placing residential customers at a disadvantage.

He was speaking as part of a national campaign to encourage improvements to broadband capability throughout the UK, with Mr Gethins saying the closure of high street banks was highlighting the need for better connectivity.

He said: “It is clear that broadband speeds are far too slow here and that’s bad for consumers, especially for those working from home or people requiring internet access for online banking, for example.

“I know from my own experience and speaking to constituents that some areas of north-east Fife, such as the East Neuk, are particularly badly affected and this must change.”

A survey by Which? has shown that nine out of 10 people regard their home broadband connection as essential to everyday life.

However, research shows 59% of people have experienced some kind of problem with their home connection, including poor connection, dropouts and slow speeds.

Speeds in north-east Fife are shown to be well below the national average of 17Mbps, at just 14.3Mbps.

Figures by Which? go on to show that the bottom 25th percentile in north-east Fife is receiving speeds of less than 6.5Mbps.

The consumer group has recently launched its Fix Bad Broadband campaign, an initiative backed by Mr Gethins.