Access to the latest technology has an important role in
supporting people through the economic downturn, says minister for
Digital Inclusion Paul Murphy.
Murphy was speaking after the government published its
interim report on "Digital Britain", which lays out the
government's blueprint for the growth of the British digital
economy and universal broadband access.
Stressing the importance of improving access for everyone to the
latest technology, Murphy said, "Digital Britain outlines some
important issues around the regulatory and technical aspects of
creating a digital Britain. Through the digital inclusion agenda we
are focused on the social benefits which this new technology
brings, and its potential to tackle social issues and enhance life
chances and opportunities.
"Across government we will now be working together to ensure
that the social and equalities aspect of the digital agenda develop
alongside the economic aspects outlined in Digital Britain.
In October, Murphy published the
Digital Inclusion Action Plan for consultation, which included
the proposal for an independent Digital Inclusion Champion.
Murphy will be announcing the new champion this spring, who will
work as a high-profile public figure to raise the profile of this
agenda, gaining support from industry, the public sectors, and
central government.