Tech minister develops IT plan

13:00 20th October 2008

The minster for technology is set to develop an action plan that will attempt to place the UK at the forefront of innovation in the digital and communications industries.

Stephen Carter, minister for communications, technology and broadcasting, will produce a report that will look at the state of broadband, digital radio, IT skills, broadcasting and intellectual property in the UK.

The digital and communication sectors are already worth £52 billion annually, employing around 500,000 people, and are continuing to grow in significance.

Mr Carter wants the UK's businesses to take advantage of new opportunities brought about by technology.

He said: "Our ambition is to see Digital Britain as the leading major economy for innovation, investment and quality in the digital and communications industries."

Last week, a survey by the IT operations firm Avocent revealed that local governments are failing to encourage citizens to utilise web services, despite the potential for reduced costs and increased efficiency.