Online entrepreneur and co-founder of Lastminute.com, Martha Lane Fox, has been appointed to tackle digital inclusion across Britain and help encourage the take-up of broadband services.

The announcement follows the Digital Britain report which outlines the government’s commitment to do more for the 17 million people who are still excluded from digital technology, and calls for further action for the six million who are both digitally and socially excluded. The report also outlines measures to curb online piracy and gives Ofcom, the communications regulator new powers to clamp down on those who persistently download music and films illegally.

In addition, internet service providers (ISPs) such as Virgin Media and BT will now be tasked with policing any customers guilty of unlawful filesharing which could see repeat offenders facing court action or having their internet speeds slowed down.

Commenting on her new role, Fox said: “I am extremely excited to be given this opportunity. Although I realise I am lucky enough to be one of the least digitally excluded people in the country, I have seen first-hand how technology can help to create positive change in people’s lives. I will use ideas, contacts and experience from both the commercial and charitable sectors to make sure that, with the help of the Task Force, I quickly start to deliver effective projects.”

Fox will begin her role as digital inclusion champion this month and will remain in the post for two years.