Turning Connectivity Into Economic Opportunity

Mobile connectivity has become integral to daily life and the economy, with increased consumer usage and expectations. However, significant further investment is needed to deliver effective 5G services throughout the UK, aligned with the Government's ambitions.

Mobile Infrastructure Investment: The UK’s Route to Growth, commissioned by Mobile UK and conducted by Assembly Research, underscores the significant economic benefits of robust mobile infrastructure, noting that every £1 invested can generate £5 for the wider economy. The report outlines key recommendations for government action to unlock this potential.

The report identifies crucial areas where government intervention will significantly boost investment and benefit the economy, including:

• Repurposing Annual Licence Fees to improve mobile coverage and capacity.
• Revising planning rules to facilitate network deployments.
• Implementing the Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure Act now and in full.
• Introducing a business rates holiday on new mobile infrastructure.
• Evolving the UK’s net neutrality regime.
• Supporting operators’ plans to switch off 2G services.
• Appointing digital champions to help expedite 5G rollouts.
• Tackling not-spots via the Shared Rural Network programme.
• Aligning with European policy reforms aimed at attracting investment.

The Report can be viewed here.

Find out more on the Mobile UK Website here.