Talking bus-stops were just one of the winners praised by the Prime Minister at the annual e-Government National Awards in London. Speaking on video, Gordon Brown recognised the "initiative, drive and commitment" of the local and central government workers who are using technology to improve public services.
The independent awards, organised by website PublicTechnology.net, recognise the best in technology-driven services that have positively transformed the lives of members of the public. Winners ranged from Brighton & Hove City Council's talking bus stops for the visually impaired to the Vehicle & Operator Services Agency's MOT computerisation scheme.
"The growing use of information technology is an important factor in people's rising aspirations,” the Prime Minister said. “These aspirations don't get left behind when they use public services. Today's citizens are quite rightly demanding more and technology has the capacity to provide it, breaking new ground and helping to achieve new goals. I commend you all for your initiative, your drive and your commitment to providing the public with the very best."
Cabinet Office minister Gillian Merron, who highlighted the vital role played by technology in making public services more efficient and accessible, presented the awards with the Government's Chief Information Officer John Suffolk.
You can view the Prime Minister's full video address online: