Question to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, what assessment she has made of the additional costs incurred by elderly people as a result of a lack of access to the internet and other digital technology.

The Government’s 10 Tech Priorities include building a tech-savvy nation where no-one is left behind by the digital revolution. The Government aims to ensure that services are built to meet the needs of users, whether that is online or through alternative routes.

To tackle the digital divide and support connectivity, DCMS has worked closely with the telecoms industry to support vulnerable consumers with the removal of data caps on fixed broadband packages, and providing free or low cost data boosts on mobile services.

Training is available for elderly people wishing to acquire essential digital skills. The Government has introduced a digital entitlement for adults with no or low digital skills to undertake specified digital qualifications, up to level 1, free of charge.

Public libraries play a key role in helping to tackle digital exclusion. Around 2900 public libraries in England provide a trusted network of accessible locations offering free WiFi, access to computers and digital support provided by staff and volunteers.

Charities such as AgeUK and AbilityNet also play an important role in providing help with technology and the internet.