Warning in Wales over broadband speed

CLA Wales Director Ben Underwood has commended the Welsh Government on its ambitious target of providing broadband speeds of 30 megabits per second (Mbps) to businesses in Wales by 2016.

Mr Underwood gave evidence to the Welsh Affairs Committee in Westminster and said while the 30mb/s target was welcome, he questioned whether it was attainable.

He said: "The Welsh Government's commitment to broadband is commendable but it must ensure that speeds in 'not-spot' areas and those with poor connections are brought in line with at least a two Mbps benchmark before promising higher speeds elsewhere.

"Broadband is an essential tool to help UK businesses recover from the current economic crisis and rural businesses in Wales are at a disadvantage if they cannot access an adequate broadband service."

Mr Underwood added: "CLA Wales looks forward to working closely with the Welsh Government and the Assembly to help promote their Broadband Enabling Scheme ensuring a better provision in the areas most affected by slow broadband speeds."