ALISON Taylor has given her backing to Labour’s pledge to deliver high-speed, full-fibre broadband to all homes and businesses by 2030.

After the party launched its election manifesto last week, the candidate for Paisley and Renfrewshire North said this policy was an example of how her party is prepared to deliver for the many, not the few.

Ms Taylor added: “Today, broadband is as a basic utility.

“It’s our primary means of keeping in contact with family and friends and is vital for conducting business: whether buying, selling, investing or growing.

“But only eight per cent of households in the UK have access to full-fibre broadband. This is a staggeringly low figure compared to some other European countries. In Spain, for example, 71 per cent of households have access to full-fibre broadband, whereas in Portugal the figure is even higher, with 89 per cent of households having access.

“We can’t afford to be left behind.

“That’s why Labour has a plan to provide free, high-speed, full-fibre broadband across the UK. This means ultra-fast and reliable broadband. This will make all of us more connected and help to tackle social isolation.

“It will boost productivity and help to make our communities more attractive places for business, stimulating the economy.”

Ms Taylor, who is giving the seat a second shot after losing out to SNP man Gavin Newlands in 2017, also insisted ahead of next month’s vote that Labour is the only party with a “credible” plan for change.

She added: “Labour is winning the battle of ideas – we have a clear vision for our country.

“It’s a positive one and we must invest in our future.

“It is only Labour which has a costed, credible and deliverable plan to deliver the real change that our country so desperately needs at this time.”

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