The SNP has called on the UK Government to take action to plug mobile phone signal gaps on 4,500 miles of road around the country.
Highland MP Drew Hendry made the plea during culture, media and sport questions in the House of Commons yesterday.
He said: “Across the nations of the UK, there are some 4,500 miles of road where there is no mobile phone coverage signal, according to a recent RAC report.
“That includes 452 miles in the Highlands – no 4G, 3G or 2G – so no call or text can be made.
“Will you commit to taking action to plug these specific gaps in mobile coverage?”
Digital Industries Minister Ed Vaizey replied: “The emergency services network proposals will see 300 new mobile masts being built.
“Our mobile infrastructure programme will see 75 masts being built and our changes to the licences of mobile providers requiring 90% geographic coverage will also see improvements in mobile coverage.”
Afterwards, Mr Hendry, who represents Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey, asked the Government for a “cast-iron commitment” that action would be taken in relation to the blackspots.
He added: “Sufficient mobile coverage for the whole of the UK, particularly rural areas such as my own constituency in the north of Scotland, should be a top priority.
“For too long, poor mobile phone coverage has gone unchecked and we need to see immediate action from the Tories in addressing this.”
Mr Hendry previously called for an opt-out for those seeking to be released from a mobile phone contract – usually 18-24 months – due to poor signal, which won the support of regulator Ofcom.