Only 35% can buy 8Mb ADSL broadband, and NO ONE can get it

This story in the news is interesting. Effectively it says.....

ADSL technology can't beat the laws of physics

But, more complexly it says.......

Your service provider, if you are buying 8Mb ADSL broadband, is lying to you

But actually, does it really matter? Well, yes, because as business people and consumers what it says is both good and bad.......

ADSL broadband is now so widely available with reasonable coverage at good competitive prices (good), that the sellers of such services to gain a competitive advantage are lying to their (potential) customers (bad)

One of the reasons that Post Offices are closing is this wide availability of ADSL broadband - you no longer need to sign on or tax your car (how ever expensive the new taxes are), at your Post Office - you can now do that online. This is possible because of ADSL broadband. Unfortunately, ADSL can't break the laws of physics - nor can the mobile phone networks: so much as thought it all works well in Bayswater, neither do in the centre of a mid-Wales valley.

I think the government need to do two things.......

1. Agree fair rules about the marketing of broadband. I think that will mean a disclaimer clause like those at the end of an investment advert, that explains that "markets fluctuate, and you may not get what you put back in;" the ADSL one would say that only x% of the population can get 8Mb ADSL, and actually you won't get 8Mb during peak traffic times

2. Agree an investment policy re rural services. This should include the creation of multi-functional premises - shops, post office, pub, etc in one place; and all should include a "hole in the wall" machine, a surf café and a mobile phone mast. If such an investment is not made, then any policy which claims to be green or rural is bunkum

Physics and being honest with consumers/voters - the way to save the rural communities!