In a major announcement Labour has set out plans to deliver free full fibre broadband for all by bringing parts of BT into public ownership and creating a new British Broadband public service. In Crawley, 45,875 households and businesses (98.8 per cent of all premises) will get a stronger, more reliable internet connection.

The announcement is central to Labour’s plans to transform our country and economy and bring communities together in an inclusive and connected society.

Leader of Crawley Council and Labour Parliamentary Candidate, Peter Lamb said; “This is an important announcement and a welcome one for businesses and people in Crawley. By creating this new public service a Labour Government will deliver the fastest broadband free to everyone. That will transform the future of our economy and society. 

“The internet is no longer a luxury, it is a central part of our lives, an essential utility. It brings opportunities for work, creativity, entertainment and friendship and those unable to afford or access broadband find themselves excluded from an important part of 21^st century life.

“That’s why it makes complete sense to make superfast broadband a public service, because it will help create the more inclusive and connected society we all want to see.”

Rebecca Long-Bailey, Labour’s Shadow BEIS Secretary has said: “As Shadow Business Secretary, I know all too well the importance of strong digital infrastructure for businesses and industry across the UK.” 

“Imagine if all those currently shut out of the labour market, such as those with childcare or caring responsibilities, those unfairly disadvantaged due to disability or older people, could participate fully through free, fast internet access from wherever they are.” 

“If we are to be at forefront of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and a global economic player, we must speed up the adoption of technologies across our economy.” 

“But this can only be done if the best possible digital infrastructure is in place.”