UK Digital Champion, Martha Lane Fox, wants to get everyone of working age in the UK online by 2012, as reported by the BBC. The Networked Nation Manifesto has been published today highlighting the lack of Internet access “among the disadvantaged, unemployed and retired”.
The plan, which is backed by Prime Minister David Cameron outlines various strategies for getting the population of the UK online, though it doesn’t specify how they will be funded.
In a quote the Prime Minister said that “In the internet age, we need to ensure that people aren’t being left behind as more and more services and business move online, promoting digital inclusion is essential for a modern dynamic economy.”
The plan includes making sure that every Job Centre and Public Library has internet access by the end of this year. To achieve this the government will be working with local authorities and local charities.
The manifesto says that “internet access packages for people on low incomes and the elderly, with low up-front costs, affordable monthly payments, and ongoing support”.
The reports says that half of all people aged over 65 have no internet access and highlights the benefits to the elderly of getting online.
Martha Lane Fox is the founder of popular travel website lastminute.com
