The NFU has launched the first farmer-focused broadband and mobile phone survey in a bid to inform its work on getting an efficient service rolled out in rural areas. 

NFU Vice President Guy Smith said it was essential that the business needs and opportunities of the farming sector are understood, especially at a time when farm businesses relied more and more on broadband and mobile phone signals. 

“This is a hugely important survey, our member experience will prove invaluable for identifying both the barriers and technological solutions for the delivery of fast, reliable and affordable mobile phone signals and broadband on farm,” said Mr Smith.  

“Survey results will be used to promote our work towards ensuring we can see the delivery of fast, reliable and affordable mobile phone signals and broadband for our members. For example, it will help us to contribute towards Ofcom’s Strategic Review of Digital Communications and help our wider work on planning issues and towards our discussions with the wider digital industries on the value of the farming market. 

“Farmers and growers are increasingly using digital technologies to farm more efficiently, and using Government digital services as well as to enjoy family life. Yet where there is no broadband coverage, or no signal for mobile phone voice or text, this can create a real barrier to efficient farming – not to mention the health and safety implications if you cannot reach emergency services - which we need to address sooner rather than later.” 

NFU researchers will be calling its members over the next three weeks to ask for their views – as well as questions relating to reception, what technology is used and how it is used on-farm.