Those who are hard-up will be able to rent refurbished PCs and laptops discarded by Milton Keynes Council for as little as £1.50 a week.

The idea is that they can keep up with others enjoying the digital revolution, using the equipment for adult learning courses and small business programmes.

More than 1,000 PCs will be distributed in the first 12 months.

Those receiving benefits such as income support, income-based job seekers allowance and pension or child tax credit will qualify.

Microsoft signed a deal with Milton Keynes Council after being impressed by what it has been doing over the past two years to get previously "digitally excluded" people on line.

Under the agreement, ConnectMK Ltd – a council company involved in establishing wireless broadband services in Milton Keynes – will load old PCs and laptops with latest Microsoft software.

It will include a Citizens' Skills Pack carrying Word, Excel, PowerPoint, One Note, the MS Live Suite and a special email account.
The council says the scheme will aid its plans to promote community cohesion and economic prosperity as well as cutting waste by refurbishing PCs.

Microsoft regional development manager Sarah Fasey said the company planned to offer the Milton Keynes-style project to other councils, in the hope of connecting the many millions in the UK who currently do not have a home computer.

Council head of IT Steven Jewell said the scheme resulted from the hard work the council had put into taking part in the Government's 'Digital Challenge' contest.

"If we are to deliver local services cheaper, faster and more
effectively, we must ensure that all citizens can take advantage of digital inclusion."

The council aimed for 90 per cent digital inclusion by 2011.
"If this was reflected across the whole of the UK, then local government will have shown that its ability to change the way our communities live cannot be underestimated."

Those wanting to know if they could benefit from the scheme are being asked to call MK 252288.