BROMSGROVE MP Sajid Javid is leading a campaign aimed at giving mobile phone users better coverage throughout the UK.
The plan, by the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, is to eradicate so called ‘not-spots’ where a signal cannot be picked up or keeps dropping out.
According to the statistics poor mobile coverage affects a fifth of the UK and some areas only have a good reception for one or some of the four mobile networks – EE, O2, Three and Vodafone – but not all four. And that means those on the wrong network in the wrong place could find themselves in the frustrating situation of not being able to make calls or send texts.
Talks have been held with mobile providers in an attempt to find a voluntary solution and Mr Javid has now launched a consultation to find out what legislative proposals could help the campaign’s aims. Views are being sought in particular from those in the mobile technology industry, including network operators, retailers, Mobile Virtual Network Operators and wireless infrastructure providers, along with consumers, rural groups and those living in partial not-spots.
The work by the industry is expected to continue after the consultation has been completed.
Mr Javid said: “I’m determined to ensure the UK has world-class mobile phone coverage as investment in infrastructure will help drive this Government’s long-term economic plan.
“It can’t be right that in a fifth of the UK, people cannot use their phones to make a call.
“The Government isn’t prepared to let that situation continue.
“We’ve been talking to the mobile companies about the problem and they are working with us to find a solution.
“This consultation will complement the work industry is doing and allow the Government to hear from the wider telecoms sector, businesses and the public.
“Businesses have been clear about the importance of mobile phones and improved coverage will help deliver jobs and economic security.”
Visit https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/tackling-partial-not-spots-in-mobile-phone-coverage for more information on the consultation and how to take part.
