Broadband 'key to the UK's future prosperity'

The internet has become so essential for businesses and consumers that super-fast broadband is essential to the future prosperity of the UK, it has been claimed.

Sir Mike Rake, chairman of BT, told WalesOnline.co.uk that while broadband was once seen as a luxury, it has become a utility, meaning investment is needed to ensure all regions can take advantage of the benefits it can bring.

"It is clearly absolutely critical for the UK and all of its regions and devolved administrations that we have high-speed broadband available," he stated.

Sir Mike went on to discuss the issue of broadband 'notspots', claiming that he lives in one and that it can be deeply frustrating at times.

"With broadband the fact is the further you live away from a copper connection, the slower it works," he told the news provider.

Culture secretary Jeremy Hunt said recently that broadband is essential to the future prosperity of Welsh businesses and that the Assembly government plans to invest in this area going forward.