MPs initiate campaign to bring free broadband to Lancashire

A campaign has been launched by three MPs to turn Lancashire into the UK's first 'Wi-Fi county' by providing free broadband to everyone.

Ribble Valley MP Nigel Evans, Chorley MP Lindsay Hoyle and South Ribble MP David Borrow have tabled an early day motion for a scheme that would involve the establishment of access points throughout the county in a way inspired by plans recently announced for Swindon, reports the Blackburn Citizen.

Businesses and private users alike could benefit from a free service and more people could be encouraged to use VoIP solutions to communicate cheaply.

Mr Evans told the paper: "I believe that, just as people need water and food in this 21st century culture, we need broadband internet connections available to all."

He added that the plan could also help address the issue of internet 'not spots' that can be found throughout Lancashire.

The government recently pledged to connect every UK home to services of two megabits per second by 2012.