Broadbandwatcher has recently reported that Ofcom was considering boosting the UK's broadband coverage from the current planned figure of 95 per cent to 98 per cent, and predicted that the news might put a smile on a face or two.

The assumption was correct - The Tory MP for Penrith and the Borders, Rory Stewart, has commented that it was indeed "fantastic news".

Some of you might remember that Mr Stewart has been an active lobbyist and did his best to raise the issue of the widening gap between super-connected and disconnected, and was keen on broadening the broadband coverage in the UK, seen as the plan has received some additional funds.

Mr Stewart said that this was indeed a grand step which would help in getting more rural communities connected to the World Wide Web:

"We need growth in Britain and this investment will transform our businesses and economy. Almost nothing has a more dramatic effect on the growth of small businesses than giving them good broadband and mobile access.

"It allows them to compete more quickly, more cheaply, and in some cases worldwide. High quality mobile signals will also allow sparsely populated rural areas to finally use the incredible new technological opportunities."

He also added that this would help those residing in rural and remote areas to take advantage of distance learning as well as telemedicine.