§ Lorna FitzsimonsTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what steps she is taking to monitor and assess the United Kingdom's progress towards the information society relative to other countries. [12467]
§ Mrs. RocheThe Department of Trade and Industry commissioned Spectrum Strategy Consultants, as part of the information society initiative, to undertake primary research to assess the UK's progress towards the information society. The aims of the research were to measure levels of ownership and usage of information technology, electronics and communications products by both companies and consumers in the UK, US, Germany, France and Japan. In addition, the study compares attitudes and levels of awareness, and analyses drivers and barriers to change. This builds on a pilot benchmarking study undertaken for DTI in 1996, the publication of which was announced on 25 October 1996 in a written answer to the hon. Member for Bournmouth, East (Mr. Atkinson)Official Report, column 16.
643WThe latest study, entitled "Moving into the Information Society—An International Benchmarking Study" will be published on 4 August and a copy will be placed in the Library of the House. Further 0copies are available by calling the ISI business infoline on 0345 15 2000, by e-mailing info@isi.gov.uk, or through the ISI website at http://www.isi.gov.uk/isi/mitis.htm.