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The government must prioritise rural broadband and mobile coverage say the NFU
Slow broadband speeds and inconsistent mobile coverage are major barriers to improving on farm productivity and the uptake of digital technology claim the NFU.
Words by: Auto Trader
Published on 11 February 2019 | 0 min read
The NFU’s latest broadband and mobile members survey highlights a clear need for better coverage to support farmers ability to maximise opportunities that digital technology can bring to the business. There have been improves to 4G services and an increase in access to superfast broadband, for example 16% of members compared with 4% in 2015, but it’s not enough.
NFU Vice President Stuart Roberts said: “It’s vital that government ensures rural businesses have access to the same reliable broadband and mobile connectivity as urban businesses so they can remain productive, competitive and innovative. “The benefits that farmers receive from applying full connectivity are many; from optimising the use of inputs to decreasing farm costs and improving productivity as a result. “With the industry facing so much uncertainty, it is clear that farmers need as many tools as possible to maintain business resilience, and having access to digital connectivity is paramount if they are to compete with our international neighbours in the global market. “After all, it can be much easier for companies and organisations located in towns and cities to relocate to access different technologies. But this simply isn’t possible for a farm or rural business – connectivity needs to be brought to them. “Decent telecommunication and 4G coverage is also essential for health and safety with farmers often working long hours alone in isolated areas. Too often we see the consequences of farming’s poor safety record. It should be a given that if an accident happens, farmers have access to reliable mobile coverage in all farm locations to call for help. “At the recent Oxford Farming Conference, Defra Secretary of State Michael Gove reminded delegates that in the Budget the government announced that it would invest a further £200m over the next two years providing full-fibre broadband in rural areas. “As an industry, we will hold the government to that promise of ensuring the very best levels of digital connectivity across rural Britain.”
NFU Vice President Stuart Roberts said: “It’s vital that government ensures rural businesses have access to the same reliable broadband and mobile connectivity as urban businesses so they can remain productive, competitive and innovative. “The benefits that farmers receive from applying full connectivity are many; from optimising the use of inputs to decreasing farm costs and improving productivity as a result. “With the industry facing so much uncertainty, it is clear that farmers need as many tools as possible to maintain business resilience, and having access to digital connectivity is paramount if they are to compete with our international neighbours in the global market. “After all, it can be much easier for companies and organisations located in towns and cities to relocate to access different technologies. But this simply isn’t possible for a farm or rural business – connectivity needs to be brought to them. “Decent telecommunication and 4G coverage is also essential for health and safety with farmers often working long hours alone in isolated areas. Too often we see the consequences of farming’s poor safety record. It should be a given that if an accident happens, farmers have access to reliable mobile coverage in all farm locations to call for help. “At the recent Oxford Farming Conference, Defra Secretary of State Michael Gove reminded delegates that in the Budget the government announced that it would invest a further £200m over the next two years providing full-fibre broadband in rural areas. “As an industry, we will hold the government to that promise of ensuring the very best levels of digital connectivity across rural Britain.”