A new initiative has been launched in Scotland to provide public access to the Internet in the local GP surgery, local pub, shop, hairdresser or church to help tackle the "digital divide".
Social Justice Minister Iain Gray on Monday announced the £3.2 million initiative by the Scottish Executive to create a network of 1,000 new internet access points by the end of the year in areas where current public provision is poor.
The strategy outlines the Executive’s intention to tackle the "digital divide" since Internet take-up and access in Scotland has historically lagged behind the UK average.
Mr Gray said: "We are determined to get Scotland on the net. This scheme is designed to make accessing the internet as easy as possible for people."
He added: "The Executive is committed to achieving universal access to the web. Our target is to ensure that public access opportunities are widespread – generally available within five miles in rural locations and around a mile in urban locations."
Research undertaken last year by the Executive shows that large areas of Scotland, particularly across the Highlands, Skye, Perthshire and the South of Scotland have little current public Internet provision.
Up to four computers per venue, complete with line rental and internet service provision for two years, will be fully funded by the Executive. Any service provider who can guarantee public access for at least 40 hours a week can apply to be a host. Successful applicants can charge members of the public no more than one pound per hour to surf.