How does subsea cable damage impact Scotland’s rural and island communities?
The Scottish Affairs Committee will hold the first evidence session of its new inquiry into Scotland's digital connectivity, examining the impact that recent subsea cable damage has had on remote and island communities.
In the first panel, the cross-party committee will explore recent examples of when digital connectivity failed: disruption caused by Storm Amy on Tiree, which left islanders without working internet for seven weeks, and Shetland cable damage, attributed to fishing activity.
Meeting details
MPs will explore the consequences of these failings on residents, response to this damage and resilience plans.
In the second panel, MPs will question Faroese Telecom, the owner of the subsea cable serving Shetland and Orkney. Members will explore what lessons can be learned from cable damage in recent years and the Faroe Islands’ approach to digital infrastructure rollout.