Small businesses and rural areas should be on EU Digital Agenda says local MEP

In the European Parliament this week Commissioner Neelie Kroes, responsible for overseeing the implementation of broadband to all EU homes by 2013, was challenged by East Midlands MEP Emma McClarkin to ensure that rural areas and small businesses are not overlooked in the EU digital agenda.

The East Midlands region which Miss McClarkin represents is overwhelmingly rural and the Conservative MEP highlighted to Commissioner Kroes the fact that many of her constituents are still awaiting basic broadband connections. The EU has a target to have broadband in all homes across the East Midlands by 2013 which McClarkin stated was still a long time to wait for her constituents.

Miss McClarkin also stressed to the Commissioner that small and medium businesses should not be left behind in the build-up of broadband capacity as accessibility to the internet and the digital world can enhance the opportunities for these businesses to grow and succeed.

Emma McClarkin comments from Brussels:

“Many of my constituents across the rural countryside already feel neglected in terms of broadband availability which is why I will monitor closely the progress of the EU digital agenda towards the deadline of 2013 for broadband connectivity in all EU homes.

“In order to meet the 2013 target much investment is needed and I will promote the East Midlands to ensure that we receive our fair share of EU funds to improve internet connections, especially for our rural areas and small businesses.”