Connectivity in rural parts of East Hampshire is not good enough.  I have welcomed the Shared Rural Network initiative on mobile ‘not-spots’ and I will press for benefits to be seen as soon as possible.  On fast broadband, progress is being made, but we need to redouble efforts, especially for the ‘last 5%’ – households and businesses in these places need to be properly connected too. 

It is important to hold SWR as the rail franchise holder to account for service performance.  Capacity increases in rolling stock and at Waterloo have made some difference, and I support the proposed Crossrail 2, for the contribution it can make – albeit in the long-term – to volume-relief at Waterloo, to the benefit of Alton line and Portsmouth line commuters.