The Barrow and Furness MP, Simon Fell, has been announced as the UK’s first Rural Connectivity Champion. 

The role was first detailed as part of the Wireless Infrastructure Strategy unveiled earlier this year and will support rural businesses to access the digital connectivity they need, with a special focus on sectors such as agriculture.

Mr Fell said:

“If we hope to unlock growth, and to ensure that our rural communities are sustainable, then the government has got to work hand in glove with local government and the private sector to deliver better connectivity. I look forward to leading that work across government and the country.”

The announcement comes alongside the news that plans to procure all regional contracts in England under Project Gigabit will be complete by the end of 2024.