Scots least pleased with broadband speeds
A recent survey has revealed that Scottish companies are the least happy with their broadband speeds and connectivity in comparison to the rest of the UK.
Conducted by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), the poll of 1,136 small businesses across the country found that 38 per cent of Scottish businesses believed their internet quality was subpar and inadequate for their business needs. This is in comparison to the national average of 33 per cent.
In addition, 47 per cent of Scottish businesses (as opposed to the national average of just 40 per cent) believed their internet would continue to be insufficient for their future company requirements.
In light of the recent results, the FSB has urged both the Scottish and UK governments to “bury the hatchet on broadband” and work together to develop a strategy and deploy fast, reliable broadband across the country.
The report from the FSB stated: “Scotland’s poorer digital connectivity is partially due to market failure.
“Rural Scotland is a relatively unattractive place for telecoms companies to invest due to low population density and challenging terrain. That is why Scotland’s smaller business community have made the case to governments in Edinburgh and London for action on digital connectivity.
“Official figures show that Scotland continues to have the poorest digital connectivity amongst UK nations despite some recent improvements.”
Policy chair for FSB Scotland, Andrew McRae, added: “Though official figures showing Scotland’s connectivity improving, civil servants, politicians and the telecoms industry needs to make sure that the service lives up to expectations.”
Not long ago, the Scottish government unveiled its R100 programme which is designed to bring universal superfast broadband networks to the whole country. However, recent updates have revealed that its initial 2021 deadline is likely to be delayed.
The FSB has called upon the government to publish a more updated timetable for the schedule and completion of the project as a result.
