Faster broadband speeds have the potential to benefit everyone in the UK, one expert has claimed.

Shane Wright, Technical Director for eDigitalResearch, claimed that improved broadband connections in rural areas will aid communication and allow for the internet-based provision of services, information and delivery.

"It is especially important where transportation difficulties exist; either because users are remote or because they are older or cannot drive - which is more common in rural demographics," he claimed.

Meanwhile, Mr Wright suggested that businesses can gain enhanced process efficiencies by accessing better web services.

He added: "They have opportunity to innovate and differentiate themselves by supporting online sales and information channels."

For both UK firms and consumers, using the internet to conduct tasks such as shopping can help reduce costs and free up time, he claimed.

The government has committed to provide universal 2Mb broadband services across the UK by 2012.