Janet Finch-Saunders Our debate today looks at how we can ensure that our economy is geared up for the future. The digital technology revolution has not only changed—and is changing—how we talk and communicate with loved ones and friends, but it is also rapidly changing how we do business, how we interact with the Government and public bodies and how we compete as a nation in the world. Increasingly, consumers are spending more and more online, with 62% of internet users now shopping online—myself included—sparking a new generation of entrepreneurs and wealth generators. Therefore, our debate today focuses on ensuring that individuals, communities and businesses are enabled and empowered to take advantage of the advances in the digital technology changing our society.
Previously, the Welsh Government estimated that 34% of all adults in Wales were digitally excluded, and it set a target to reduce this to 25% by 2015. I welcome the news that this broad target is progressing. However, concerns still linger that one quarter of Welsh adults are still digitally excluded. Two particular segments of our nation that are more likely to miss out on the digital revolution that is steaming ahead are rural communities and our older generation. In Wales, approximately 79% of adults aged 18 and over have access to the internet at home. This stands in stark contrast to single pensioner households, where the figure is just 33%. While lack of interest is the primary reason given for not wishing to use the internet, a significant number also cite a lack of skills and knowledge. Indeed, for those who are digitally excluded, a lack of skills is given as the most common barrier to being digitally engaged. This leads to the view that there is a strong need for specific ICT training to enable digital inclusion. The national survey for Wales highlights the need for the Welsh Government to specifically consider those aged 65 and over for targeted policy action to combat digital exclusion and isolation, which follows on from the Welsh Government itself identifying older people as a priority group for support. An important method to deliver such vital training is through the use of local colleges, and adult community centres for the delivery of training.
I am very concerned to hear that such training is now being withdrawn. In my own constituency, I am currently acting on behalf of several constituents of the older generation who have contacted me to say that local training courses for adults had been withdrawn. Now, how can those who are suffering from digital exclusion have the education and training that they need withdrawn? I would ask the Minister to give some reasons as to why this is happening.
This moves on to the issues facing our rural communities as they attempt to play a full role in our digital society. The ability to access the internet is arguably even more important for our rural communities, as they may not be able so easily to pop to the shops or visit a bank as those who live in our towns—something that is reinforced by the statistics, which show a higher proportion of those who live rurally. While the roll-out of fibre broadband, as part of the superfast programme, has moved forward, there remain many areas of Wales that do not have access to this network, which means that they are in increasing danger of slipping behind the rest of Wales, particularly as rural areas, such as Aberconwy, have more elderly residents. Now, I welcome the recent announcement of £1.2 million awarded to the broadband company Xwavia, which is using a variety of technologies to help the roll-out of broadband in Conwy, which will soon, hopefully, provide benefits to residents and businesses. However, I am concerned that the Superfast Cymru website advises simply to keep checking when we might be able to receive fibre-optic broadband in the area, and there is generally a consensus of confusion now. Regularly, every day, we have people contacting us who are very concerned and very confused.
Limited availability of broadband is a significant challenge for our rural communities, businesses and farmers. The Wales Office in 2011 found that one third of farmers could not gain access to broadband at all. As the administration of our agriculture moves increasingly online, including CAP application processes, it is imperative that farmers and Welsh agriculture do not suffer as a result of poor digital infrastructure.
It is obvious to me that the digital economy is set to play an increasing role in driving our economy as a whole. It will affect everyone in Wales and, indeed, beyond borders. Therefore, I urge Members to support the motion today, recognising this fact and calling on the Welsh Government to provide further information on its exact plans to enable all Welsh communities, businesses and individuals to play a part, regardless of age, location or background.