Need advice? Call our experts free on
0800 090 1342
FSB demands boost for Scottish broadband
The business organisation has warned Scotland could fall behind the rest of the UK in the digital age.
The organisation has called for Scottish political parties to commit to work with the Conservative-Liberal Democrat coalition in order to boost broadband access, speed and reliability, the Press Association reports.
In backing up its demands, the body highlighted research conducted by the Scottish government in March 2011, which found 45 per cent of firms that use broadband believe their bandwidth will need to increase over the next two to three years.
Businesses that are predicting substantial growth over this period are twice as likely to feel they are being held back by their internet connection as companies with more moderate prospects.
And almost two-thirds of respondents believe their use of broadband and online applications will rise in the next five years.
The issue could be even more significant in rural regions of Scotland. An Ofcom study published in August 2010 found super-fast broadband access is lower in more remote areas, while 3G mobile coverage is also less prevalent.
As a result, just 17 per cent of rural residents own a 3G phone, compared with 27 per cent in towns and cities north of the border.
Andy Willox, Scottish policy convener for the FSB, said the country must not be "left behind" in the digital age.
He insisted next-generation broadband access is important to everyone in Scotland, from public and private sector organisations to charities, schools, universities and consumers.
"That is why it is vital that whoever forms the next Scottish government works with the Scotland Office and Scotland's local authorities to deliver on this issue," Mr Willox remarked.
"We cannot allow the various administrations to point fingers while public sector bodies, businesses, communities and families are unable to connect to the 21st century's newest utility."