More than four out of 10 adults would not use broadband even if
it was available, according to research.
The findings raise a question over the government's plan to
oblige network operators to provide a minimum 2mbps
universal broadband service nationally.
An
Ipsos MORI poll for the communications regulator Ofcom found
42% of adults do not have the internet at home due to lack of
interest or need. They tended to be older and retired, and 61% have
never used a computer, the pollster said. Some 30% said they could
not afford it.
"This group shares a sense of indifference, with many struggling
to express any reason why they should have the internet at home.
Some also felt they were too old or believed it is for younger
people," it said.
The broadband universal service obligation is a keystone of the
government's
Digital Britain report, which is due out on 16 June.
Network operators and broadcasters have lobbied intensely for
communications minister Stephen Carter to grant money and/or
guaranteed returns on investment to upgrade and switch to digital
technology. They said they need this to pay for the extension of
broadband access to rural regions.
Others, notably content creators such as musicians and video
makers, have argued that it was more important to create online
content that customers were willing to pay for. Satisfying that
demand would help provide the capital for the switch, they
said.
Despite the cool reception from senior citizens, Ofcom said one
in five adults who do not currently have the internet at home are
likely to sign up in the next six months.
And it follows the recent Communications Consumer Panel
research which revealed that many people already regard it as
essential to have broadband at home.
The latest Ofcom research looks at why those people do not have
the internet at home and what would stop them from taking it up in
future.
Those intending to get the internet in the next six months are
more likely to be younger, use the internet already outside of the
home, are working and have children.
Their main reason for accessing the internet is for information
(36%), followed by communicating with friends and family (26%),
keeping up with technology (25%), and because friends and family
recommend it (25%).