Are we there yet? Future-proofing the UK’s digital connectivity infrastructure

This report examines how the UK is currently falling behind in meeting its own targets for gigabit-capable broadband and standalone 5G across the country, with a recognition by MPs that the Government needs to be doing more, especially as the copper switch-off approaches.

Introduction

The amount of data we use on our mobile phones has more than trebled since 2019 in the UK and is set to climb further.

At the same time, the UK fell to a ranking of 53rd globally for mobile download speeds last year, and it looks like the
UK will miss its own targets for rolling out standalone 5G* across the country. Data usage over broadband in the UK has risen by more than 1600% since 2013, but the UK sits in 44th place globally for broadband speeds and fibre connections remain an issue for millions of households.

Consumers, industry and policymakers all know that more needs to be done to make sure the UK has the digital connectivity it needs, not only to service the current demands from homes and businesses, but to future-proof
the country with the increasing demands for data as more services move online, and to be competitive on the world stage.

In the year since we published our 2024 Digital Connectivity report, there have been some welcome policy interventions and announcements, especially in the first half of 2025, but we now have to ask – are we there yet? And if not, what needs to happen now to ensure the UK has the digital infrastructure it needs to provide best-in-class connectivity?

This is a crucial question to answer, as good connectivity is critical to boost productivity, thereby increasing economic growth. It is also necessary to support the functioning of society and Government, all of which was recently recognised in the Government’s own Infrastructure Strategy.

As part of our examination of the sector, Cluttons, in conjunction with YouGov, has surveyed MPs for a second year running, to continue our momentum in gaining a deeper insight into how those sitting in Westminster are thinking about digital connectivity and the infrastructure to deliver it. The findings from the survey of 108 MPs are instructive,
and underline some of the measures we have been calling for to smooth the path for a faster roll-out of gigabit-capable broadband and standalone 5G across the country. Our survey also revealed that nearly 90% of MPs said good digital connectivity was important for increasing productivity and boosting UK economic growth.

Cluttons’ position in the market as a touchpoint for operators, landlords and the public sector means we also have a unique insight of the hurdles facing those responsible for delivering the UK’s connectivity from every angle.

*Standalone 5G means not relying on 4G infrastructure

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