Farmers put in danger by inadequate mobile phone signals

Poor mobile phone and broadband coverage continues to blight farmers in many parts of the country, undermining their ability to run their businesses efficiently and posing a risk to health and safety.

According to results from the NFU’s latest digital access survey, around three-quarters of the 755 farmers questioned reported unreliable mobile signals in some locations on their farms.

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And, while farmers and growers have seen a 10% increase in 5G access over the past 12 months, 6% of NFU members still have no access to either 4G or 5G on their smartphones.

With Farm Safety Week approaching (22-26 July), NFU vice-president Rachel Hallos said the situation was worrying and potentially dangerous.

“Leaving a farmer with no way of communicating in a crisis is dangerous, and this lack of access is preventing UK farmers and growers from doing what they do best – running successful and profitable food producing businesses.”

Broadband speeds

In terms of broadband speeds, there have been improvements, with 58% of the surveyed farmers now finding them “adequate” for the needs of their business – an increase of 10% from last year.

But the NFU says greater coverage is needed so that rural and farm businesses can take full advantage of new opportunities, including agri-tech innovations such as robotic milking or precision farming.

“Reliable internet and mobile connectivity are crucial for everyday farming operations, from submitting VAT returns and using GPS on tractors, to communicating with customers so they can comply with UK regulations and operate their businesses efficiently,” it said.

The NFU welcomed the new government’s pledge to roll out gigabit broadband and 5G by 2030, and urged ministers to provide detailed plans and a timeline on how this will be achieved, particularly in rural areas.