Poor digital connectivity is still a significant issue for farming businesses across the country.

The government has announced new consultations aiming to improve broadband connections in the UK's most remote rural areas.

Plans have been outlined to update the broadband Universal Service Obligation (USO), which gives people the legal right to request an affordable, decent broadband connection.

There is also a consultation looking to develop future policy to improve connectivity for very hard-to-reach premises, which are in the UK's most remote areas.

Read more: PM Rishi Sunak urged to reject solar farm plan

The government has a broadband target of reaching 85% of premises by 2025.

However, some premises in remote areas are unlikely to benefit directly from the substantial activity across the telecoms industry to deliver gigabit-capable broadband services.

This can be caused by their isolated location, low population density or limited existing telecoms infrastructure – all of which can make them challenging to connect.

Outlining the plans, Defra Secretary Thérèse Coffey said: “Our countryside, home to millions of people, is rich in potential and we want to make sure that everyone can develop their skills and reach the opportunities for success.

“So whether through improved connectivity, housing or transport I’m championing rural communities as we seek to grow our economy – so that every part of our country gets the support it needs to thrive.”

Industry groups say poor connectivity is still an issue as many farmers do not have fast and reliable broadband in order to run a modern-day farming business.

Much of rural Britain is crippled by poor broadband connectivity: the UK is 45th in the world for average broadband speed, but many remote areas struggle to get close to that.