Telephone watchdog Oftel has
announced that several telecoms operators are backing a scheme
that will allow public institutions to gain cheaper access to the
Internet.
Oftel Monday said that the new proposals will mean lower rates not
only for schools — which already benefit from lower tariffs —
but for public libraries, Colleges of Further Education and
Citizens Advice Bureaux.
“BT, Kingston, CWC, Telewest, NTL and Energis have all agreed
in principle to the scheme, which will benefit those who might
otherwise not have access to the Internet,” said David Edmonds,
director general of telecommunications.
“Far greater numbers of people will be able to take advantage of the
potential of the Internet by having increased access to this valuable
resource.
“This commitment to serving the community is a positive step in the
development of the Learning Society.”
The details of the offer have yet to be finalised, but Oftel says
that a scheme will be in place “by the middle of next year.”
