European broadband takes off

European surfers are taking to high-speed internet access, with the number of broadband subscribers on the rise, according to a European Commission report.

The number of people using broadband internet across EU countries has grown by more than 80 per cent since January 2004, with around six per cent of the EU now using broadband.

But while broadband take-up in the EU is now faster than in the US and the level of broadband competition is improving, the report warns that member states must continue to "take account of new ways of delivering high speed access and to learn from good practice in other countries".

Erkki Liikanen, European commissioner for the information society and enterprise policy, said: "This is not about systems and technology, but about providing solutions for citizens, businesses and government. It can help to increase choice and boost productivity."

"We have seen impressive rates of growth, particularly in some of the larger member states such as France and Italy. But the momentum needs to be maintained, particularly by ensuring competitive markets and the right regulatory conditions for investment."