Select committee: Scottish Affairs Committee
Conclusion 5
2nd Report - Fixed link connectivity in Scotland’s islands
Published 16 Oct 2026
Addressed to Scotland Office
Scottish Affairs Committee Connectivity in Scotland: Fixed links All items in this report Report on parliament.uk ↗ Inquiry on parliament.uk ↗
Conclusion (the committee's words)
Devolved responsibility for transport does not mean the UK Government’s role in fixed link projects in Scotland should be limited. Fixed links could be a key enabler of industries which are strategically important to the whole of the UK, including space launch and clean energy. They could also strengthen national security, and help preserve the viability of island life, culture and heritage in the UK—all of which should be strategic priorities for the UK Government. (Conclusion, Paragraph 52)
From: Scottish Affairs Committee, 2nd Report - Fixed link connectivity in Scotland’s islands (HC 167), 16 October 2026
Government response
Government response awaited: deadline 16 December 2026.