Almost three fifths of small business owners say that the poor quality of their internet access adversely affects their ability to run their businesses effectively.

Almost three fifths of small business owners say that the poor quality of their internet access adversely affects their ability to run their businesses effectively.  

The survey of 1,500 respondents released by outsourcer marketplace Freelancer.co.uk puts small businesses at odds with Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt, who reiterated in a speech at the Google Campus building that broadband speed is more important than coverage.  

Some 65 per cent of UK small businesses believe that there is still a rural urban internet divide, with many businesses in rural areas unable to take advantage of new business opportunities the internet brings.  

A further 65 per cent are worried that if the government continues to put speed over coverage many businesses in rural areas will suffer, and that the government isn’t interested in bridging this gap.  

Businesses in urban areas, such as the South East, are just as worried as businesses in rural areas about the lack of consistent coverage across the country.

The study comes as the internet and e-commerce is playing an ever-important role in regenerating the economy, contributing more than £34.9 billion in the first six months of the year, according to IMRG Capgemini e-Retail Sales index.

Yet businesses in rural areas are unable to take advantage of this growth.  According to Matt Barrie, CEO of Freelancer.co.uk, it is crucial that internet coverage is consistent across the whole of the UK to support business development.  

He adds, 'Reliable and robust Internet access is essential for all UK businesses to take advantage of new business opportunities the Internet provides.  

'It is isn’t just e-commerce, but businesses are now relying on cloud technology as well as carrying out important business communications. It shouldn’t be easier for someone in London to have a business Skype call with someone in Pakistan than with someone in Halesworth in Suffolk.'  

See also: SMEs get help from family and friends on the internet