Mobile broadband would 'stimulate economic growth'

The deployment of high-speed mobilebroadband networks has the potential to drive economic growth throughout Europe, a leading trade body claims.

Delegates at the GSM Association's Leadership Summit discussed the need for European governments to invest heavily in mobile network infrastructure.

It was suggested at the event that mobilebroadband may have a "unique role" to play in stimulating economic growth, while also enhancing levels of efficiency and employment.

Alexander Izosimov, chairman of the GSMA, said: "If the mobile industry can continue to grow and develop at the rate it has over the past 15 years, it could act as one of the few locomotives which can help pull our economies out of the current slump."

Mr Izosimov explained that it is important for governments to implement effective policies that will "nurture" the potential of mobilebroadband, "rather than stifling it".

Experts at the conference also stressed the "once-in-a-generation opportunity" represented by the spectrum soon to be made available in the switchover to digital television.

Communications minister Lord Carter recently met the major mobile companies in the UK to negotiate their role in the recently announced universal broadband plans.