Governments realising broadband importance

Governments are increasingly becoming aware of the need for high-speed broadband, according to an expert.

Countries which adopt the technology gain a "competitive edge" in terms of business, Alan Harten of The Telecom claims and reaching speeds of 100Mbs will be the benchmark.

"The US and several EU countries have made it clear that they want 100Mbs to become the new standard speed to help boost business and technological advancement," he wrote.

But governments are also interested in seeing that those at home can access the super-fast connections.

"It is no longer a race to achieve Fibre to the Home (FTTH), the new industry race is to achieve Fibre to Every Home (FTEH), and not only in every home but also to make that connection much faster than what is available now," explained Mr Harten.

The Ofcom Consumer Panel, an advisory body to industry watchdog Ofcom, has recommended that those who have not been part of the broadband revolution because of their location should be the first to be offered BT's planned 100Mbps connection.

This move would be part of attempts to close the UK's "digital divide".