INTERNET service provider Numericable has become the first French operator to launch a cut-price package reserved for low-income households.

The operator has announced plans for a €9.99-a-month package including 2mb broadband, free French landline calls and about 60 television channels.

Numericable chief executive Pierre Danon said in an interview with Le Figaro that he hoped the service would launch in the summer. Applicants must receive RSA income support or disability benefit to be eligible.

The government said last month that it wanted every French ISP to offer a special cut-price package to low-income households within six months. The idea is part of a new law on the "digital divide" that aims to address inequalities in web access.

Telecoms watchdog Arcep published a report last autumn encouraging operators to follow the lead of EDF, GDF and France Telecom, which already offer special deals for low-earners.

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