Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Covid-19: Technology Sector

Monday 27 April 2020 · 2 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 2 Partly answered 0 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Ministerial Questions addressed support for the British tech sector to develop apps aiding economic recovery, including a 1.25 billion package for R&D.
  • The minister acknowledged the importance of technology access for disadvantaged groups, mentioning the DevicesDotNow campaign to connect vulnerable people with devices.
  • Steps are being taken to help disadvantaged families and young people get connected, working in collaboration with the Education Department.

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Questions & Answers

Q1 Alan Mak Con Wallasey
Economy Science & Technology Business & Trade
Context

Discusses the role of tech companies in supporting NHS and public during pandemic.

Question

Inquires about support for British tech sector to develop apps aiding economic recovery, referencing a specific app called 'covid symptom tracker'.

Answer from Oliver Dowden (The Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport)

Details £1.25 billion package including convertible loans and grants for R&D aimed at resilient tech firms through challenging period; emphasizes role of tech in economic recovery.

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Q2 Tracy Brabin Lab Batley and Spen
Education Culture, Media & Sport Science & Technology
Context

Raises concerns about digital divide affecting participation in arts and culture, citing specific BBC initiative.

Question

Asks what steps are being taken to ensure cost does not discriminate against disadvantaged groups in accessing technology; inquires about plans post-covid to widen access to creative industries.

Answer from Oliver Dowden (The Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport)

Acknowledges importance of technology access; mentions DevicesDotNow campaign supported by government to connect vulnerable people with devices; working with Education Department to help disadvantaged families and young people get connected.

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