Digital services in rural areas unfit for modern era, peers warned

RURAL ECONOMIC growth is reliant on a far better connected countryside if it is to survive in the modern world, landowners will warn a panel of peers today.

The Country Land and Business Association (CLA), which represents landowners, farmers and rural businesses in England and Wales, will tell the newly formed House of Lords Select Committee on the Rural Economy that digital connectivity is vital to running rural businesses effectively.

An inquiry by the committee, which has been appointed to investigate the rural economy, is gathering recommendations from leading rural organisations as its members prepare a report on how government policies are impacting upon rural economic growth.

The committee’s report is due to be published next year.

Christopher Price, the CLA’s policy director, said: “Connecting the countryside has the potential to revolutionise rural businesses and communities.

“Broadband and 4G mobile coverage are essential services in 21st-century Britain but rural areas are not able to participate in the digital revolution as fully as in urban areas. Rural economic growth depends on digital services fit for the modern world.”

He said the committee should challenge providers over the roll-out of broadband to ensure they comply with the Universal Service Obligation, while mobile phone operators should held to account to deliver rural 4G.

The planning system is a barrier to growing the rural economy too, he said, adding: “Resolving issues with the planning system would also empower rural areas by creating growth, jobs and desperately needed homes.”