"Digital Britain" chief named as Stephen Timms

Faster broadband "top of in-tray"

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7 August 2009 9:10 GMT / By Amy-Mae Elliott

The man who will be in charge of the government's Digital Britain plans has been named as Stephen Timms, the current treasury minister.

Following the departure of communications minister Lord Carter, author of the recent Digital Britain report, Timms will take on the "extra ministerial responsibilities" within Lord Mandelson's Department for Business, Innovation and Skills this autumn.

Joining Timms is the creative industries minister, Sion Simon, who will handle the relevant aspects of the plan for the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

"Building a 21st century knowledge economy is at the heart of government's vision. It's vital for jobs and growth that Britain is able to maximise the benefits of the digital revolution", Timms said.

"I look forward to driving this project forward in my joint role working in the Treasury and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills".

"At the top of my in-tray will be plans to ensure faster broadband access for homes and businesses and combating digital piracy - as we move towards publication of the Digital Economy Bill".