Written question asked by Stephen O'Brien (Conservative) on Thursday, 18 December 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 22 January 2004. It was answered by Stephen Timms (Labour) on Thursday, 22 January 2004 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what the (a) actual and (b) percentage change in the take-up of connectivity technologies among the UK's micro and small businesses was in each year since 1997; and what steps are being taken to increase take-up. - Inc fact that measurement of take up of connectivity is covered by the DTIs Internatioal Benchmarking Study (IBS) produced annually since 1997, copies available from the Library.

Answer: Mr. Stephen O'Brien: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what the (a) actual and (b) percentage change in the take-up of connectivity technologies among the UK's micro and small businesses was in each year since 1997; and what steps are being taken to increase take-up. [146133] Mr. Timms: Measurement of take up of connectivity is covered by the DTIs International Benchmarking Study (IBS). The IBS has been produced annually since 1997 and copies are available from the Libraries of the House. IBS 2003 shows UK businesses in general have reached saturation point on internet access although there has been a slight falling off in connection by micro and small businesses. A similar situation applies to the use of websites. The Government will continue to promote the benefits of being connected to the internet for micro and small businesses but emphasis will be placed on encouraging a more effective use of information and communication technology (ICT). Businesses of all sizes need to use ICT in a more sophisticated way, paying due attention to people and processes, as well as the technology, if they are to gain the expected benefits.

Secondary information