4 April 2005
In a drive to tackle the 'digital divide' between those with access to IT equipment and skills and those without, the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry has announced a seven point action plan.
The plan was formulated in response to evidence that the UK suffers from a a digital divide with some groups largely excluded from benefiting from access to the Internet for a variety of reasons including cost, lack of confidence or skills in using computers, and relevance.
The plan includes features such as a "digital challenge" prize to be awarded to a local authority and its partners to give universal on line access to local public services.
A commitment to give all students the opportunity for pupils to access ICT at home through a low cost national laptop and home PC leasing scheme.
It also put forward a commitment to work with the IT industry to create the safest possible on line environment, backed by the police, charities, and the industry
"We aim to make the UK a world leader in digital excellence with public services that are even more responsive, personalised and efficient than the leading companies that have successfully deployed the internet to serve their customers," said Patricia Hewitt.
"We are committed to ending the digital divide for families with children, and the Prime Minister's strategy Unit and DTI, in partnership with industry aim to make the UK a world leader in digital excellence and the first nation to close the digital divide."
A commitment was also made to widen Internet access to the disabled and elderly.© DeHavilland Information Services plc
Keep up to date with industry and Nomensa news by signing up to Nomensa newsletters.
