UK companies think business broadband supply is poor
Almost half of companies based in the UK have described the supply of business broadband as poor or even very poor.
New research from manufacturers' organisation the EEF found that 40 per cent of firms believe their business broadband supply is not good enough.
The body is calling for the government to boost investment in infrastructure including broadband by the end of the current parliament, which closes in May.
Chief executive of the EEF Terry Scuoler stated that there is widespread concern among the business community that the quality of critical infrastructure is declining rather than improving.
He said: "Roads are the backbone of the economy and the glue that holds the rest of the transport network together, with four-fifths of manufacturers saying they are critical to their business operations. Similar concerns exist about our energy and digital networks.
"The message from manufacturers to the chancellor for the remainder of this parliament is clear, complete the job on vital roads, energy and broadband projects. As far as Industry is concerned these are far more important than redirecting planning resources to new aspirational projects."
Some 45 per cent of companies taking part in the EEF study stated that they would have investment in the broadband network in their top three priorities, which almost 15 per cent of respondents said it would be their top one.
Manufacturers accused the government over the slow pace of the rollout of improved broadband infrastructure, even though the Conservative-Liberal Democrat alliance has made this one of its top priorities in the last four years.
The EEF stated that a more "hands-on approach" is needed over business critical infrastructure in the coming months to ensure the UK's supply of broadband is up to the required standard. It added the government should commit to supporting the growing digital economy and make sure the whole of the UK is covered by high speed broadband and effective mobile networks as quickly as possible.
Businesses looking to move services into the cloud should evaluate the performance of their existing network and consider setting up a leased line or MPLS network.
(Image: Kainet)
