Digital Britain 'to lead the world'

The Government is to develop a digital media "action plan" to drive the UK to the forefront of the world's communications industries.

Stephen Carter, the first minister for Communications, Technology and Broadcasting, is to produce a report entitled Digital Britain.

The Government says that Digital Britain's "ambition" is to accelerate the growth of the digital economy in the face of financial upheavals. As it stands, that economy is worth £52 billion each year - almost 6% of GDP.

In addition to looking at broadband, digital radio and content development, the report will focus on internet user security.

Other items to be considered include media literacy and IT skills, and an examination of how to provide universal access to high-quality public service content in the digital age.

New Secretary of State for Business Peter Mandelson said that Britain must "prepare for the upturn" at the end of the financial and banking crisis by strengthening its place in the communications and digital technology sectors.

Steven Carter said: "Communications have been revolutionised in the last 20 years, with consumers and businesses alike embracing the opportunities and taking advantage of the reality of the new technologies.

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

IMAGEMATT DUNHAM/AP/PA Photos