All manner of government-funded services that can be considered as "areas of market failure" are being cut back. For example, I hear Kent County Council are seriously considering cutting subsidised bus services.

It strikes me as bizarre that while the elderly and poor are being hit very hard, countryside dwellers who generally aren't short of a few bob, should be in line for subsidised high speed broadband.

There are already options for those living in rural locations (wireless broadband, satellite broadband or broadband via the 3G mobile network). Yes, these cost more, but those of us living in built-up areas have to put up with stinking traffic fumes and a generally more noisier problematic environment.

I'd love to live in a cleaner quieter less stressful rural location, but can't afford to. These aren't areas of so-called "market failure". They are actually areas of advantageous surroundings.

If you have to pay more than the 'going rate' for fast broadband access as a consequence of living in a more beneficial environment, then people should do so when they can afford it. Those with plenty of money, and keen to keep and add to it, are always happy to receive state handouts. But as I've pointed out, there are already options for rural dwellers. So, put your hand in your pocket, or move somewhere else.