VoIP solutions to benefit from minimum broadband speeds

VoIP solutions could be set to improve following calls for a basic universal broadband speed.

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has urged the new government to introduce the minimum download speeds to aid the growth of smaller businesses in rural areas.

The organisation has found that 94 per cent of small businesses claim that the rates delivered by providers fall short of those advertised, resulting in decreased efficiency and productivity.

A minimum broadband speed would allow companies to introduce more reliable IP telephony solutions, while also reducing revenue.

John Walker, national chairman of the FSB, claimed that the lack of widely available broadband is "unacceptable".

He added: "The UK is lagging behind and as a result small businesses - especially in rural areas - cannot develop their business online which is vital for growth."

It is believed that universal deployment of the technology could create 60,000 jobs and add £18 billion to UK GDP.