A consumer watchdog has said the Government should promote internet TV services and on-demand TV in its bid to get poorer people online.

Despite the wide availability of cheap broadband deals from as little as 20p per day, a report by the Consumer Focus group said a "targeted" approach needs to be adopted if the Government is to be successful in attracting 7.5 million more people online over the next four years.

The report, Broadband Minded, said there was "limited relevance" in promoting online savings to low income homes, as many lack the funds to see the benefits.

People earning less than £11,500 have "little motivation" to get online, according to the report, because "commonly touted benefits of online savings are not relevant to many low income consumers". And although cheap broadband deals are great value, that is not a reason in itself to go online.

The watchdog also said internet TV and video-on-demand services "are likely to be the most fruitful way to motivate consumers".

Mike O'Connor CBE, chief executive of Consumer Focus, said: "Government has made it a priority to encourage people to get online, especially those on low incomes."

He added, only by "promoting the online benefits that appeal to those on low incomes will more people be encouraged to get connected."

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