Henry Smith MP has welcomed research showing that superfast broadband has boosted the turnover of local businesses across the UK by £9 billion.

This boost to the UK economy has created some 49,000 jobs, showing the clear benefits that superfast broadband provides.

Nationwide superfast broadband coverage has now reached 95.39 per cent due to the Government’s focus and in the south east of England, more than 97 per cent of homes and businesses can now access superfast services.

Henry said;

“This shows that extending superfast broadband is making a real difference to local businesses, boosting turnovers and reducing unemployment.

“This is good news for local businesses as we move into an increasingly digital economy, and it’s great news that 97 per cent of homes and businesses in the south east of England now have access to superfast broadband.

“We know there’s more to do, so are continuing to work with broadband providers to reach areas not yet covered and expect a million more homes and businesses to gain access in the next few years.”

Work is ongoing to extend coverage, with more than one million extra UK homes and businesses estimated to gain access to superfast speeds in the coming years, taking superfast coverage to 98 per cent of the nation.

The Government has introduced a Universal Service Obligation meaning everyone will have access to fast and affordable broadband by 2020.

Going further, plans have been set out to deliver nationwide full fibre connectivity by 2033 as part of the modern Industrial Strategy.