Millions miss internet boom
2007-03-16 10:49
London - Young people, wealthy families
and graduates use the internet more than the elderly, poor or
unqualified, according to a report that highlights Britain's
growing "digital divide".
Internet access is directly linked to people's age, income
and education, the Office for National Statistics said in a
major survey of the use of computers, mobile phones and digital
television.
While most young people regularly access the web, more than
half of those aged 50 or over have not used a computer in the
last three months.
One in 12 British households has no access to the internet,
a mobile phone or digital TV, according to the report "Focus on
the Digital Age", published on Thursday.
Nine out of 10 of the highest-earning households have
internet access, compared to less than 20% for those on
the lowest incomes.
Graduates were four times more likely to use the internet
regularly than those with no qualifications, the study found.
The number of families with home internet access shot up to
55% in 2005-06 from just one in 10 in 1998-99, although
the growth rate has eased.
Digital TV has seen an even greater rise. Nearly two-thirds
of houses have digital, satellite or cable receivers, compared
to a fifth a decade ago.
The proportion of adults using the internet declines with
age. Only 15% of those aged 65 and over visit websites.
However, the number of people aged between 55 and 64 going
online rose to 52% by April 2006 from 30% in
2001-02.
The most common reasons given by older people for not using
the internet were a lack of interest or confidence; having no
computer; seeing no benefits in the web and cost.
Others said they relied on someone else to access the web
for them.
The report said a government campaign has made the internet
available to those without computers at most libraries and at
online centres and some post offices.
The boundaries between computers, phones and televisions
have been blurred by technological advances, the report said.
Many mobiles can access the internet and send e-mail and some
televisions allow people to surf the net or play games.
The report is at www.statistics.gov.uk