The internet contributes to 8.3% of the UK economy - according to recent research. Some 13.5% of all purchases were done over the internet in 2010 - more retail online than any other major economy - and this is projected to rise to 23% by 2016. It will continue to expand at a rate of 11% per year for the next four years, reaching a total value of £221bn by 2016.

While only a quarter of those surveyed said they would consider giving up sex for a year in order to maintain their broadband connection, the figures for other vices were much higher. Some 65% would give up alcohol, 76% chocolate and 78% coffee.