Edinburgh MP praises fibre optic broadband rollout

An MP from Edinburgh has hailed the installation of fibre optic broadband after being introduced to the technology by representatives from BT.

Edinburgh East MP Sheila Gilmore was shown the street cabinet in the Abbeyhill area of the city and was more than impressed with what she saw.

Although the social benefits that come from a superfast connection in the home are often the first that come to mind, Ms Gilmore explained the economic boost the service will bring cannot be underestimated.

She said: "I've also received enquiries from local residents looking to set up small businesses from home, who are eagerly awaiting fibre broadband to be turned on in their street."

Afterwards, the MP went on to say that she was positive the increased number of businesses would bring an employment boost to the area.

It is estimated that a total of 95,000 homes and businesses now have fibre optic broadband access thanks to BT's rollout project.