Four in 10 struggle to access mobile signal on the move in the UK

Four in ten people in the UK struggle to access a mobile signal while on the move, a survey reveals, highlighting widespread frustration with the country's digital infrastructure [1]. The YouGov poll for property consultancy Cluttons found 45% of people feel frustrated with mobile connectivity outside the home at least once a week, a figure that rises to 57% among 18- to 24-year-olds [1]. At home, 27% of respondents are frustrated with their wifi connection at least weekly [1]. This comes as the UK's global ranking for mobile download speeds has fallen, slipping to 59th place last year from 51st in 2023 [1]. The findings expose a gap between connectivity ambitions and delivery, with critics noting network rollout has favored more profitable, easier-to-access areas [1]. While the UK compares well on fixed broadband coverage—with 86% of premises able to access gigabit-capable service, similar to France and ahead of Germany's 80%—mobile performance lags [1]. This is significant as the digital sector was worth more than £140 billion annually to the UK economy as of 2020 [2]. Helen Morgan, the Liberal Democrat MP who chairs the digital communities all-party parliamentary group, stated, "Digital connectivity is fundamental to the UK’s economic growth, acting as the backbone of a modern, productive economy" [1]. She emphasized the impact is particularly severe in rural areas, where businesses report lost income and operational delays [1]. Economic modelling suggests improving mobile coverage along railways could unlock nearly £3bn in productivity gains over the next decade [1]. The UK's internet adoption is high, with 93% of households having access by 2019, but the quality of mobile connectivity remains a pressing issue [2]. The government recently announced a rollout of satellite technology on trains to provide an alternative to current mobile networks [1].