Free computers for poor' plan

Details of a government plan to give disadvantaged childre free computers and internet access have been announced. Schools Minister Jim Knight said the programme will beging in February with two year-long pilot schemes in Oldham and Suffolk. Chosen families are to be given grants.
The cash will allow them to buy an "approved home access package", which will include a computer or laptop, basic software and broadband for one year. It is aimed at ensuring that every child will eventually have access to a computer and the internet for their school or college work. The programme will be rolled out nationally next autumn with every five to 19-year-old in England having internet facilities by 2011.