It seems that in some quarters of US, broadband is considered an essential tool in the armoury for the economic recovery after a bird-flu pandemic. Should (or is it when?) it comes, extensive travel restrictions will be enforced - in other words compulsory tele-working. If the commuter belts around the major cities don't have extensive, reliable, and fast broadband services then it is felt the US economy could take a big hit.

 The South-East of England contributes more than £6bn to London's economy, and is the second biggest economy in the UK in its own right. Are the same concerns being considered here I wonder?