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Finance (No. 2) Bill

The Opposition change their argument as they lose each point. The issue with regard to abuse of the scheme—as well as its lack of targeting, the importance of better focusing it, and the problems of not consulting where there are abuses in the scheme because of forestalling—are well known by all Members. If the hon. Gentleman will allow me to continue to make my case, he will be able to make his and further points can be made. Following the publication of the digital strategy in April 2005, the Government have continued to acquire an evidence base to enable them to consider focusing their support. In November 2005, the Government published their ““Inclusion through Innovation”” report. It examined where information and communication technology might deliver the most benefit to excluded groups and considered how that might be achieved. The report found that barriers to using ICT included a lack of relevant content, poor awareness of where to access ICT and a lack of preliminary skills, such as literacy or English language skills. The report also noted that digital inclusion does not mean simply"““connecting everyone to the internet””." Community ICT access and intermediaries all form part of a multi-channelled approach that will deliver for the targeted groups. The Government are making the case that it is necessary to use those resources to target the groups in greatest need and in which take-up is lowest. To ensure the best use of ICT in tackling this type of social exclusion, I am announcing today that the Government are setting up a dedicated digital inclusion team—[Hon. Members: ““Oh.””] The industry does not mind being represented on the team, so it does not think that the team is to be ridiculed. The team will champion examples of excellence in using highly effective and efficient ICT to tackle the key drivers of exclusion. It will also promote local and national leadership and understanding of the considerable potential of ICT to make a significant improvement to the life chances of excluded people and areas.