The Government has set an ambitious development target for the
UK's digital infrastructure improvements. In 2019 they announced
plans to deliver nationwide gigabit broadband coverage by 2025.
In December 2020 the Government announced that they were
likely to miss the 2025 goal.
The target has now been scaled back to 85 per cent coverage by
the same date, a 15 per cent reduction. This has been described as
a blow to rural communities, with the Public Accounts Committee
stating that it would mean these areas could be locked out of
gigabit broadband for years to come.
However, beyond the need for considerable investment into
the UK's digital infrastructure lies another key issue for the
Government: the UK has a digital skills shortage which could limit
middle market businesses' ability to thrive in this digital era.
'Without question investing in digital infrastructure should be a
priority, but it will be investment in digital skills that holds the key
for our future international competitiveness. If reliable internet is
the basic hygiene factor for a thriving digital economy, it's digital
skills that will be the rocket fuel for economic growth. The middle
market needs to see Government action to increase the supply
of digital skills into the labour market, both through an increased
focus on digital skills training within the education system and
further financial and tax incentives for employers themselves
to invest in digital skills. An immigration system which prioritises
digital skills will also play a key role,' said Knowles.
INFRASTRUCTURE | LISTENING TO THE MIDDLE MARKET
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