Free basic ICT training should be available to all adults, according to an independent report. The review, carried out by Baroness Estelle Morris, was commissioned by the Government to assess whether the nation’s basic computing skills needs are being met. Its findings indicate there are an estimated 11.6 million adults who lack basic computing skills in England and that the elderly, those socially excluded and those with few qualifications are most at risk of being left behind in a world that becomes ever more digital. Baroness Morris said: “It is vital that all citizens, no matter what their age or their background, are given the chance to develop basic ICT skills. “If this is to happen, the Government needs to have a clearer focus, be less bureaucratic and not as complex. It must work with its partners from the voluntary and private sector to persuade people that they need to learn computer skills and make it easy for them to do so. “The entitlement proposed in this review is a step towards achieving that.” Kevin Brennan, Minister for Skills in the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, said: “I welcome Estelle Morris’s findings and will look seriously at how we can do more to improve basic computer skills for adults most in need – including the unemployed, those at risk of redundancy and older people – as well as those in jobs.” In making recommendations, Baroness Morris took account of existing funded provision of ICT skills and found there had been a 50% reduction in the number of adults taking up funded ICT training. Although research indicates the number of digitally excluded adults has reduced over time, it is apparent that the gap is widening for those most at risk: adults over 65, those who are socially excluded and those with few or no qualifications.