Superfast broadband roll-out delayed by 'negotiations'

The government's roll-out of "superfast" broadband to rural areas is about two years behind its original schedule, an official audit has found.

The report said only nine of 44 rural areas will reach targets for high-speed internet by 2015, and four areas could also miss a revised 2017 target.

The National Audit Office also raised concerns that BT will be the only firm likely to win contracts.

David Corner, from the National Audit Office, said the delay was due to a high number of negotiations around the country.