The "broadband revolution" has been a major factor in the development of the internet over recent years, according to one industry head.

John Petter, managing director of BT Consumer, has highlighted the way in which faster web connections have assisted in the internet's considerable impact on modern day life in the UK.

He said: "Over the last decade, we've seen the birth of the online society, the broadband revolution and the evolution of mobile communications, the internet has changed the way we shop, do business and the way we are entertained."

Mr Petter was speaking in the wake of the publication of results from a recent BT survey, which found that 44 per cent of Brits now have broadband at home.

Further results from the BT 21st Century Life Index report show that over half the population now spend over six hours a week on the internet, compared with just 14 per cent ten years ago.