CBI Urge Government to Fund 5G Fast

The Government must act fast on 5G funding and policy to secure UK’s economic future.

20:42 17 December 2018

A report released by the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) is urging the UK Government to act fast on funding and policy as it could risk losing its competitive edge internationally.

 

 

The report highlights that while the government has set the dates for the completion of national 5G and full-fibre network, its policy on full-fibre broadband and 5G mobile network is being overshadowed by Brexit.

 

CBI UK chief policy director Matthew Fell said: “In today’s world, digital connectivity matters more than ever,” said CBI UK chief policy director Matthew Fell. “If data is the new oil, then digital connectivity is the pipe that transports it. Seamless connections, from full-fibre networks to 5G, offer unprecedented opportunities for businesses and consumers across the UK.

 

“Our country is already home to hundreds of thousands of innovative technological firms, both startups and large enterprises. Business models and workplaces are changing, and more people are either working from a coffee shop, their home or office. They are the backbone of our economy and they all rely on fast and reliable digital connectivity to run their businesses successfully.”  

 

“Action needs to be taken now to unleash our digital economy, which is already worth nearly £184bn,” said Fell. “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.”