Government broadband funds 'will benefit Cumbrian businesses'

The £16.8 million committed by the government to improve broadband infrastructure in Cumbria will provide a significant boost to commercial organisations in the area, allowing them to take advantage of VoIP hardware and other technological innovations.

Rob Johnston, chief executive of Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, told the Westmorland Gazette that better internet connectivity will revolutionise the region and allow its businesses to compete with those already using such technology.

And with further possible funding available from Europe, the prospects for Cumbrian firms look positive going forward.

"It gets us on a level playing field with other areas and creates the opportunity for our businesses to have a quality online presence to make money," Mr Johnston told the newspaper.

Furness MP John Woodcock echoed his claims, stating that slow broadband is a major hindrance to economic growth in Cumbria.

According to Richard Hardesty of Onlincolnshire, firms using VoIP hardware could struggle if their internet connection is too slow.