It's not a far-fetched goal, since the UK already expects to have 95 percent broadband coverage by the end of 2017. However, there are questions as to whether or not the expansion will be enough. There's a difference between having the option of broadband and having the money to pay for it, for one thing. The Conservative-led administration says the options will be "affordable," but it's not clear just where pricing will start. Also, the Labour Party is concerned that this emphasis on access will put quality on the "back-burner." What good is signing up if your broadband isn't reliable?

Still, this could represent a big step toward ubiquitous internet service. There are still gaping holes in broadband access across developed countries, let alone emerging nations -- the 2020 plan would show that the UK could at least take care of itself. If it does, it'd give rural dwellers many of the same opportunities for business and communication as their urban counterparts.

[Image credit: AP Photo/Matt Dunham]