MUMBAI: In these days when people are surfing the net in hordes, more than a fifth of adults in the UK are devoid of the internet, according to new a research published by the British Broadcasing Corporation.

21 per cent of UK adults – over 10 million people – do not use the internet at home or anywhere else. The Government has argued that these people are potentially at a disadvantage in terms of access to employment opportunities, public services, as well as cheaper shopping, utilities and financial services.

Socially, these adults may also miss out on the opportunities to connect with friends and family, access information, or pursue hobbies and interests.

The findings suggest that there are real and significant barriers for the Government and other agencies to overcome in order to achieve universal access.

The BBC has pledged to help people who want to get online using its strong relationship with audiences and sharing research with organisations involved in increasing access as a key part of the Government‘s Digital Britain agenda.