Digital Divide

That the Parliament notes with concern the reported digital divide that is developing in Scotland between the public and private sector; understands that the Scottish Government recently announced that the roll-out of its Reaching 100% broadband connectivity programme will not be completed until at least the 2021 deadline; recognises the report on digital development by Audit Scotland, which it understands highlights that the Scottish Government does not know what has been achieved to date through its 2017 digital strategy, nor has it an understanding of what has been spent on the programme; acknowledges the most recent report by the Scottish Public Pensions Agency regarding the plan to integrate pension administration and payment operations, which has reportedly failed, leaving a £23 million gap in revenue and capital budget over the next five years; considers that, in order to implement IT projects, proper staffing and resources are essential, and believes that the integration of technology into the public sector is vital for the future.