Business broadband: Govt support ‘vital’

The government must “step up” and deliver a fast, quality broadband provision to the country’s small businesses, a leading business group has said.

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) said some smaller firms aren’t able to compete in the ‘digital economy’ because they don’t have the broadband needed to get online, with many facing significant challenges.

The FSB was commenting on figures released by the communications regulator Ofcom which suggest that nearly half a million small businesses cannot access superfast broadband, with 192,000 not even being able to access 10 Mbps.

There is also a problem in business parks and rural areas.

The FSB wants the government to deliver a Universal Service Obligation by the end of the current parliament so that a basic level of broadband can be enjoyed by all small firms.

Mike Cherry, FSB national chairman, said: “Although progress continues to be made, Ofcom has shown today why an ambitious USO is essential to get all businesses connected to a basic level of broadband.

“We are pleased that Ofcom have set out clearly the challenges small firms face and the options the government has in resolving this issue.

“The situation for many small businesses is urgent – there is no time for delay. Government must step up and deliver the broadband our members need. If small businesses are to compete in the new digital economy, they need to be able to get online.”

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(Image: Kainet)