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Research carried out by NTL shows that two-thirds of the UK public would like to make simple transactions such as tax and fine payments online. However, we're not bothered about creating alternative means of access other than via a PC. Making services available via mobile phones, interactive television and public kiosks were rated as some of the least important priorities.

Clearly, though, those most likely to benefit from remote access to online government services are those least likely to own a computer with an Internet connection. Those receiving benefits, for example, will be far more likely to own a television than a computer, and may prefer being able to access online services from a local public terminal than queuing at council offices.

Bill Taylor, Chief Executive of West Lancashire District Council and Chairman of the SOLACE e-Gov panel agreed that different methods for access would be vital for these services and that in spite of apparent public indifference, they would remain high on the list. 'The e-agenda is about promoting choice, including how to access services,' he said. 'While Internet access is currently low, telephone access is at an all-time

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high reflecting the massive trend in customer-friendly local authority call centres and CRM systems. Over time, with improvements in transactional websites and shifts in customer culture I have no doubt that the current call/click/'come-in' formula will shift to some extent in the favour of more Internet access.'

Although those surveyed said they would prefer to access government services online, the evidence suggests that few realise this is currently possible. The Public Sector believes that 40 per cent of Internet-users are aware of electronic services, yet the NTL research revealed that only 8 per cent use services regularly at present. And indeed just 12 per cent of UK Net users are aware of the roll out of e-Government services.

In fact, we're not even at the beginning of the roll out. As much as 98 per cent of Local Government organisations claim to be on track to meet the 2005 targets set by Central Government to get services online. So while two thirds excused themselves due to worries about data protection issues such as where records would be stored and who might have access to them, there's still a massive discrepancy between what's available and what's being used.

Lucy Brown, Director of Sector Marketing in NTLs business division, said: 'e-Government has proved an enormous challenge for the Public Sector, from the commercial question of funding and the technical problems of implementation through to the social issue of bridging the digital divide. With 98 per cent of organisations on track to meet the 2005 deadline, the future for e-Government looks promising. There is still much to be done however and for the initial groundwork to deliver long-term and widespread benefits a comprehensive education programme is required.'