The Scottish Affairs Committee has launched an inquiry into broadband and mobile connectivity across Scotland’s rural and island communities, seeking ways in which this could be improved.

While broadband connectivity has improved in Scotland, it continues to lag behind England and Wales, with Scotland falling behind the UK average for gigabit and full-fibre connectivity.

This is particularly pronounced in rural areas, the Committee finds, where only 42% of Scotland’s residential properties have access to full-fibre broadband, compared to the UK rural average of 52%.

Mobile connectivity presents similar challenges, with 11% of Scotland experiencing total 4G not-spots, more than double the UK average of 5%.

The Scottish Affairs Committee inquiry will explore the rollout of broadband and mobile connectivity in Scotland, as well as the coordination between UK and Scottish government connectivity programmes.

MPs could investigate the knock-on effects for communities that come from technology transition, such as the phase-out of the Radio Teleswitch Services (RTS), the barriers to infrastructure deployment, and alternative connectivity solutions like satellite-based services.

The inquiry may also consider what steps are needed to ensure that communities vulnerable to storm and bad weather damage are not left without vital mobile and internet services when infrastructure is damaged by force majeure events.

The Committee is also launching a public survey to ensure it hears views from people across Scotland on the topic, with a particular interest in hearing from rural and remote areas on their issues with internet and mobile connectivity.

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“In today’s world, most aspects of life rely on fast and reliable broadband and mobile connection, with key services increasingly being offered online. A good internet connection is vital, but Scotland’s digital connectivity continues to lag behind other countries in Britain,” Patricia Ferguson, MP, chair of the Scottish Affairs Committee, said.

“Scots in rural and island areas are particularly affected by this, as infrastructure delivery is complex and costly.

“It’s crucial that broadband in Scotland can improve to reach further into remote areas of the country, to help local communities access the vital services and help drive their local economies forward.

“As part of this inquiry, we’ve launched a survey to hear directly from people living with connectivity issues across Scotland.

“We want to learn how connectivity issues might be impacting their everyday life, and what they think needs to be changed, to ensure that the Scottish people can have their voices heard.”