Broadband – CLA proved right yet again

BT's announcement that they are to invest £1.5 billion into the broadband infrastructure through the greater use of fibre optic, once more proves that the CLA has been vindicated in calling for fibre optic to be available to all.

CLA President, Henry Aubrey-Fletcher, said "We have been saying for a number of years that the broadband 'nirvana' is fibre to every door. With this announcement by BT, there is a recognition that our long term goal is not only credible but may, at last, be coming to fruition.

"However, this must be regarded as only the start. The Government, which after all will see significant benefits and cost savings in a fibre optic roll out, must also share its responsibility and invest in the short, medium and long term future for the UK economy.

"Clearly, the urban-rural divide is still very much in evidence and we believe that it is fundamental that this divide is narrowed. Fibre optic cabling can do this but it is essential that rural areas are not left out of the equation which would lead to a widening of the divide."