21/01/2009

'Technology Can Make Our Public Services Even Better': Minister

Cabinet Office Minister Tom Watson has joined the Prime Minister in recognising innovative ways technology is used to make public services more accessible and efficient.

Speaking at the annual Public Technology E-Government Awards in London Tom Watson said the awards were proof that public services are being made not only stronger but also more user-friendly than ever before.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown also praised the winners, who come from local and central government offices across the country.

The Prime Minister said: "The E-Government Awards recognise individuals, teams and organisations who are using new technologies in innovative and creative ways to deliver better public services. I congratulate you all for your commitment, dedication and success.

"When times are tough, as they are now, it is more important than ever for government to work as smoothly and efficiently as possible. I hope you will continue to push forward with your mission to transform our public services and, with them, the lives of people up and down the country."

Awards were given to individuals and teams who have ensured efficient and effective delivery of public services online. They included the Charity Commission's scheme to encourage online charity returns and a programme pioneered by Hertfordshire Police that lets Officers send urgent appeals and crime alerts direct to the public.

(JM/BMcC)

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