UK Government unveils £32m fund for superfast broadband in Scotland

Broadband: The government unveiled £32m fund to provide superfast service.STV

A £32m fund for superfast broadband could create more jobs in Scotland, the UK Government has claimed.

The cash available to expand the broadband network as far as possible in the country, in line with UK Government targets, according to Scottish Secretary Michael Moore.

It was unveiled on Friday and adds to the £68.8m allocated by the government last August to increasing broadband access following a spending review.

Mr Moore said: "Access to superfast broadband means Scottish businesses can expand, develop new markets and compete globally. It also allows local communities to access public services more quickly and efficiently online.

"Providing Scotland with high-speed broadband is essential for businesses to grow and to create the new jobs we need. That is why the UK Government believes broadband is essential not only for everyday life but also for the future economic success of Scotland and the UK."

Telecoms regulator Ofcom says superfast broadband connection speeds must be at least 24Mbps.

In August 2011 the UK Government said English counties would receive £294.8m, Scotland £68.8m, Northern Ireland £4.4m and Wales £56.9m of the funding.

The £32m pot of money is additional funding, following analysis of the online infrastructure in Scotland, the Treasury said.

According to Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt: "(The Government is) determined to ensure the whole of the UK can share in the benefits and opportunities the internet offers. The internet provides huge opportunities for growth by enabling businesses to access new markets and develop new products.

"This extra investment will help Scotland develop the infrastructure that businesses need to grow in the digital age."

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