What steps it is taking to close the "digital divide".

The Executive is launching today a strategy designed to achieve universal access to the internet and help close the digital divide in Scotland. The promotion of a digitally inclusive Scotland is a key element in our drive to create a socially just society. The strategy encompasses a range of measures including publishing details of over 700 existing facilities in Scotland where the public can gain access to the internet and a scheme to create over 1,000 extra access points to the internet, delivering comprehensive access across Scotland. We are also launching a search for two Digital Communities. The objective is to demonstrate how the internet can increase peoples' opportunities and improve quality of life, but at the same time to inform our further efforts to close the digital divide. This initiative will ensure that 2,000 households in two disadvantaged communities have access to the internet and are able to gain the skills to use it. The actions listed in the strategy will complement existing programmes, such as the Individual Learning Account scheme which offers individuals discounts of up to 80% on the cost of basic IT courses.Copies of the digital inclusion strategy are available on the Scottish Executive website (www.scotland.gov.uk/digitalscotland). Copies have also been placed in the Parliament's Reference Centre.