Translating the internet into French

Lionel Jospin says France needs to catch up in the internet stakes

France is to have its first college dedicated to the internet and digital technology.

With fears that the French are lagging behind in the emerging e-commerce markets, the Prime Minister Lionel Jospin announced plans for a "Grande Ecole" of the internet.

The college, which will be built near Marseilles, will target funds at internet-related research and development - with the aim of helping France to catch up in the race to establish online industries.

It will provide advanced courses for school leavers and for adults seeking re-training in internet skills.

The college will promote internet-related research

"While the United States spends around 20% of its public research budget on information technology, France spends only 5%. Over the long term, we cannot let this difference continue," said Mr Jospin.

There are already many universities in the United States which have adopted the internet as a medium for delivering courses - as well as a subject for study.

The number of universities in the United States offering courses through the internet has more than doubled since last year - rising from 15% to 34%.

As well as announcing the building of the new institution, the prime minister also promised that there would be extra funds for researchers.