In a move to bridge the gap between the “computer haves and have nots” a
network of 800 learning centres is being set up. The centres, to be funded
by a 400 million pound budget, will be located in schools, colleges and
business settings. Priority will be given to inner city areas. The aim is to
bring state of the art information and communication technology within
reach of everyone to develop basic skills and provide for advanced
learning. 

Jack Cunningham, Minister for the Cabinet Office, has challenged public
sector organisations to get sickness absence down 30% by 2003. This is the
target he has also set for the civil service. Absence through sickness is a
long-standing problem across the public service.There are some cases where sick leave is viewed as an entitlement and an extension of annual leave scales.