The telecoms giant's 'State of the Small Business Nation 2007' report found 82% of small enterprise owners credited their high-speed Internet connections with giving them increased mobility, remote access and more flexibility.

The report, which interviewed over 400 UK businesses employing fewer than 50 people, found more than 95% of those questioned had broadband connections at home.

A BT spokesman said:

"Britain's small businesses are critical to the health of the UK economy, and broadband is becoming central in helping them to thrive without compromising other aspects of their lives."