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A fast internet connection for all: it’s the law. Or will be soon, if the UK government’s pledge to give every household the legal right to a fast broadband connection becomes a reality.

The backdrop is a nation that has yet to fully understand the social and economic potential of the web. And worryingly, it has somehow lost sight of the internet’s original promise – to empower individuals and increase engagement at a universal level.

Will this proposed right really affect our ability to afford an internet connection or the equipment to use it, and the digital skills to make the most of it? In other words, will it create a society where everyone can benefit from the internet? The devil may be in the detail of the forthcoming .

With , this is a crucial question. We are living in a divided society.

It’s simply not right that a huge chunk of the population — often those who could most benefit from the internet — are being left behind. Beyond keeping in touch with family and friends, and easing access to online government services, basic digital skills can improve people’s quality of life.

Financial stress

Research tells us that on average, . With financial stress ranked as a primary cause of mental health issues in the UK, if they have more choice in and control over the process.

Its importance isn’t just about saving money. now. Without the right digital skills, it will be impossible for people to access these services without assistance. This aside, digital skills help people be part of civil society and are fundamental drivers of jobs and prosperity.

Making basic digital skills universal is just a starting point. We need to go further and bring digital leadership and workplace skills to everyone in the UK.

It’s well documented that the UK is experiencing a digital skills crisis. A recent online job search shows over , and a 2015 report put the number of new workers needed in the tech and creative sectors .

I also believe that public service and leadership in the UK needs to be fit for the digital age. That’s why charity Doteveryone is piloting a programme to place digital mentors in the offices of four members of parliament. This isn’t about making MPs better at using social media, but about finding out which digital skills, data and tools can help elected officials serve citizens better.

If we invest £1.65 billion in basic digital skills and low-cost devices over the next decade, , based on outcomes such as higher earnings, better employability and increased retail sales.

Digital skills for everyone in the UK is too important an issue to exist in a silo. We need to create a society where everyone can benefit from that right to a fast internet connection.