Ultimately, though, it is the people who will have to decide whether they are prepared to learn new skills and accept teleworking or, indeed, whether they want to use the information services available. Consequently, one of the most important tasks of the European Union is to find a social consensus on this matter. The Bangemann Report proposes ten initiatives concerning experimental applications of the new information technologies. The purpose is to promote more widespread use by demonstration. Distance learning The workforce's willingness to participate in lifelong learning is very important for Europe's competitiveness.
Distance learning is a way of making training and further education more accessible and attractive.
Industry has benefited for some time from EU-promoted cooperation between universities and research centres. But small businesses could also benefit from the new technology. Links will be established with authorities, associations, customers and suppliers. Better communication between planes and air traffic control centres makes flying safer. A European system of standards for communication procedures and the exchange of data and voice messages should be in place by the year 2000.