AN MP has called on the government to increase internet speeds in a part of his constituency.

Andrew Stephenson, who represents Pendle, made the comments in a debate in the House of Commons.

Mr Stephenson said: "Data from the House of Commons Library show that the rural Higham and Pendleside ward in my constituency suffers some of the worst levels of broadband, with a quarter of residents experiencing absolutely pathetic download speeds.

"Will my right honourable friend get his department to sit down with Superfast Lancashire and Openreach to find a way forward for that ward?"

Matthew Hancock, minister of state for the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, said: "Yes, we are making some progress in Lancashire, but there is much more to do.

"I hope that my honourable friend’s support for the Digital Economy Bill and the universal service obligation will help to make sure that we can connect everybody in Lancashire with a decent speed over the next couple of years."