Urgent action is needed to deliver the digital connectivity businesses need to thrive, according to the CBI.
Earlier this year, the Government set ambitious targets to roll out 5G mobile networks nationwide by 2027 and full-fibre broadband by 2033.
However, the CBI’s latest report, Ready, Set, Connect, warns that Government policy on 5G and full fibre risks being overshadowed by Brexit. Without action on funding and policy in 2019, firms of all sizes will be at risk of losing their competitive edge internationally, the CBI claims.
With digital connectivity presenting an opportunity to “supercharge” the UK’s productivity, prosperity and international competitiveness, the report makes three recommendations for policymakers:
- Fast-track proposed laws to ensure every new property has access to gigabit broadband and give companies permission to access land or property to install connections for private tenants.
- Ensure all new Government infrastructure projects include full-fibre broadband capacity.
- ‘Turbo-charge’ 5G adoption by raising awareness among businesses and helping them learn more about how to use it.
“In today’s world, digital connectivity matters more than ever – if data is the new oil, then digital connectivity is the pipe that transports it,” said Matthew Fell, UK chief policy director at the CBI. “Seamless connections, from full-fibre networks to 5G, offer unprecedented opportunities for businesses and consumers across the UK.”
He concluded: “Action needs to be taken now to unleash our digital economy which is already worth nearly £184bn. This means the Government must unlock investment, update the law to help everyone get access to gigabit broadband and spur businesses to adopt new technologies.”
To read more about how 5G and full-fibre broadband will transform the business landscape, download our Next-generation connectivity report today!
Tags: Digital economy, 5G, digital connectivity
