Businesses are being called to have their say in the digital inclusion debate, as a new appeal is launched.
An action plan for consultation on the issue of digital inclusion – addressing the gap between those with the access skills and confidence to use new technology and those without – was launched last month. Delivering Digital Inclusion – an Action Plan for Consultation is seeking contributions and thoughts from across the public, private and third sectors.
It is estimated that there are 17 million digitally excluded people in the UK.
Paul Murphy, minister for digital inclusion said: “The UK’s future prosperity will be built on a digital platform, and digital exclusion has a major impact on skills, employability, and staff efficiency.”
The European Commission estimates the benefits of digital inclusion could be worth as much as €85bn over the next five years. The cost of failing to address the problem could be even higher.
Businesses are asked to comment on the definitions and issues covered in the plan, and to contribute to proposals for a Digital Charter and the Digital Champion who will be appointed to drive the agenda forward. The consultation period closes on January 19, 2009.
To take part in the Digital Inclusion Action Plan consultation, visit: http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/communities/deliveringdigitalinclusion.
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