There are areas in the UK that were previously excluded from 1^st generation broadband access. An Ofcom advisory group is now suggesting that these excluded areas should get a special head start, and be the first to enjoy next generation access. The main objective of the consumer panel was to represent consumers that are currently in its market. This will ensure that informed decisions are being made, based on the economy and society as a whole. The focus should not only be based on companies alone. Anna Bradley, who chairs the panel, pointed out that these excluded areas in question, are not high on the scale when considering cost-effectiveness for these services. In spite of this, it is still important to proceed along these lines, so as to narrow Britain’s existing digital divide.

It is anticipated that a good mix of public and private business models, will open up opportunities for consumers who were excluded from 1^st generation access, to now leapfrog into next generation. A wide range of Public services will be enhanced, with super-fast broadband speeds as high as 100 Mbps. For instance government services will be delivered faster. The delivery of specialist services to the disabled, via telemedicine will be at an all time high. Also, remote communities will gain easy access to education services. Figures from the Office of National Statistics indicate that 35% of households in the UK are without any form of internet access. Of those with internet access, 9% still use a dial-up connection. The sad fact about this is that most of them could get broadband if they wanted, but they just cannot be bothered.