Internet access for schoolchildren

Tuesday, 23, Sep 2008 12:00

The government is announcing plans to give internet access at home to all children of school age today.

The move, which will benefit 1.4 million children, will involve the distribution of 'education technology allowance vouchers' to pay for broadband access.

Gordon Brown is making the announcement in his leader's speech at the Labour party conference in Manchester today, arguing that the key theme of his party's conference - 'fairness' - is tied up with the need for children to have a level playing field when it comes to internet access.

The lowest-income families will receive up to £700 under the vouchers. It is not yet clear how they will be distributed. Will they make a difference? Will the vouchers be presented in a way which ensures full take-up by those who need it most? And will the move help Mr Brown achieve the successful speech he desperately needs?