GRAHAM LEADBITTER: Getting connected to smart meters is not always so simple

As your MP, one of my favourite parts of the job is getting out and about across the constituency; whether it’s listening to what matters to you, working to help solve the issues that you and your communities are facing or just popping by to say hello.

It’s a privilege to represent the good folk of Moray West, Nairn and Strathspey and I will continue to work hard on your behalf.

Recently, I held an Easter Surgery Tour where I visited many towns and villages across the constituency including Carrbridge, Boat of Garten, Kincraig, and not forgetting a lunch pit-stop at a constituency-favourite: the Reindeer Café (I’d recommend the horseradish and beef salad sandwich!).

The main themes of discussion with those I spoke to at my surgeries won’t be a surprise.

People up here are disproportionately impacted by:

• the rising energy costs despite the fact we produce more energy than we need;

• the rising cost of living continues to take its toll on families particularly when it comes to food costs;

• they are rightly concerned about the UK Government’s lack of action on the war in Palestine;

• and as many of you will be aware, the upcoming Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) Switch-off has caused issues, particularly for those who have been unable to properly connect a smart meter in their property.

The RTS switch off commences on the 30 th of June, so if you haven’t yet switched to a Smart Meter, remember to do so as soon as possible, to avoid any issues.

For anyone who is having difficulties switching, they can get in touch and my team and I will do our best to assist.

Poor and lack-of connection has been a running theme, and those of you impacted by TransmitAIR’s recent broadband cut, will be all too familiar with the difficulties this can cause.

For those who may not be familiar, TransmitAIR are designed to provide a broadband connection to those living in rural areas, where traditional broadband isn’t available.

However, due to a dispute between TransmitAIR and Cellnex, who provide the infrastructure, customers in Strathspey recently found themselves without a broadband connection.

I have been in constant contact with both TransmitAIR and those constituents who have written to me who have been impacted by this issue.

I have written to Ofcom and will be meeting with them soon to discuss this issue.

Rest assured; I will continue to liaise with all the relevant bodies until all those impacted have this issue resolved.

In a world where more folk work from home, including running their own small businesses, a secure and fast broadband connection is vital.

Beyond this, my staff team and I continue to support constituents on a daily basis.

For anyone who may be passing through Elgin, my office on 9 Wards Road is open on Mondays, Wednesday and Thursdays from 10am till 4pm, or you can get in touch by email on graham.leadbitter.mp@parliament.uk.

Graham Leadbitter (SNP) is MP for Badenoch and Strathspey

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