Orkney and Shetland MP Alistair Carmichael has today called on internet service providers to come clean on the connection speeds they are able to offer customers in the Northern Isles.

Mr Carmichael was speaking after new research from Ofcom, the communications regulator, found that actual broadband speeds and those advertised can differ greatly. Ofcom found that just 14% of customers on ‘up to’ 20mbps services received speeds over 12mbps, while 58% averaged speeds of 6mbps or less.

Consumer groups are now calling on firms to provide a typical range speed rather than a hypothetical maximum when advertising their products.

Commenting, Mr Carmichael said:

‘What this latest research from Ofcom makes clear is that in many cases there is still a substantial gap between the internet packages which people sign up for and the level of service they receive.

‘Despite improvements in recent years, many people in Orkney and Shetland still struggle to access the internet and there are a number of ‘not spots’ around the Isles. It is important that those who are able to get online are aware of exactly what it is they are signing up for when choosing a service provider.

‘Companies need to come clean and ensure that their customers have all the information they need from the start.’