Foreword

Society has changed significantly over the past decade. The way we do business, access information, communicate and deliver services has been revolutionised by the digital era. The once formal structures and barriers to trade, media, travel and interaction have been reduced by the huge growth in the use of computers and access to the Internet.

Commentators have criticised Parliament and Government for not adapting traditional political structures and processes to reflect society’s increasing reliance on digital media. This has resulted in these institutions becoming out of touch with the public.

In addressing the real and perceived disconnect between the public and the government, Whitehall has commenced a programme of incorporating the use of innovative online deliberative tools to interact with people at both national and local levels. My Department’s Digital Dialogues pilot has played an integral part in this ongoing process to bridge the communication divide.

The Digital Dialogues initiative offers government departments, agencies and ministerial offices the opportunity to test three ICT tools – webchats, forums and weblogs – as a means of re-engaging with the public and encouraging interactive ongoing dialogue. The programme is evidence of my Department’s commitment to promoting public participation as a means of empowering people to voice their opinion and be actively involved in our democracy.

The Digital Dialogues interim report illustrates how public involvement in the policy development process can influence policy outcomes. I am encouraged by the positive findings of the report and I strongly support the continued practice of using digital means to promote public participation in policy development.

I would like to thank the Hansard Society for their valuable contribution to the Digital Dialogues initiative. I would also like to thank those agencies, departments and Ministers participating in Digital Dialogues for their willingness and enthusiasm.

Bridget Prentice MP
Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Ministry of Justice