Communications: Wider mobile broadband access can benefit rural businesses

Posted by Jessie Richards

Businesses in rural areas could benefit from improved access to mobile broadband services, according to a new report.

The Commission for Rural Communities (CRC) has claimed that many parts of the countryside risk being left behind in the UK's digital revolution and wider access to dongle services can help bridge the gap.

As reported by ISPreview.co.uk, the quango said low-quality internet access continues to impact on rural businesses and internet service providers should commit to extending their service reach.

The commission also claimed that further spectrum liberalisation should take place, allowing broadband provides to deliver web services via 2G networks.

"Modern communications is the lifeblood of our economy and vital for the sustainability of rural areas, but they will get left behind if the gulf between urban and rural connectivity is allowed to widen," the CRC claimed.

"In order to make a stronger business case for private and public investment in rural areas, all present and future rural needs have to be captured and quantified."

The Federation of Small Businesses recently claimed that countryside-based companies are being disadvantaged by a lack of access to high-speed broadband.