Member Article

Politicians too focused on broadband speeds, say think-tank

Politicians are too focused on broadband speeds and the case for spending money on fast connectivity is weak, think-tank Policy Exchange suggest.

The organisation’s latest report, The Superfast and the Furious, suggests an end to government subsidies for broadband infrastructure once current commitments are fulfilled in 2015.

Policy Exchange say the government should turn their attention to helping an estimated 10.8 million people who are not online, and doing more for small businesses.

A poll of 2,000 people and 500 businesses conducted by Ipsos MORI for the think-tank revealed only a third of people were confident they could choose the best broadband deal for their household.

64% of respondents through basic broadband coverage for the whole country was more important than chasing fast speeds in some areas at the expense of others.

The research also showed that 79% of small businesses have a web presence, however only 34% can take bookings online, and 36% can accept payments.

Streamlined planning measures for local authorities is one of the key recommendations of the report.

It is also suggested that a stronger role for the Minister responsible for broadband is created, with more explicit remit to promote economic growth opportunities from mainstream use of the internet.

The report’s author, Chris Yiu, said: “Successive governments have been right to invest public money in basic broadband connectivity. The government’s current spending plans will extend fast broadband to the vast majority of people. Any further public money should be spent on making sure we are putting this to good use. It’s far from clear that your taxes should help to pay for me to have an even faster connection.

“There is no doubt that broadband, both fixed and wireless, makes a major contribution to the economy. But the right person to decide how much speed your family or business needs is you – not the government.”

Graham Walker, CEO of Go ON UK, the UK’s Digital Skills Alliance, added: “The UK has strong digital foundations, but is not maximising the full economic and social benefits offered by digitisation.

“To reap benefits for all in the UK, we need universal broadband access and greater investment in the digital skills and capabilities of individuals and businesses.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .