The Louvre museum and national library are among the partners who have agreed to give pupils and teachers free access to their databases via the internet. IBM France will provide software to make the network possible.

Mr Lang has also struck a deal with the BBC allowing teachers to record English language programmes and hopes to strike similar agreements with broadcasters in other countries.

He has announced extra funds to help local authorities buy the necessary equipment. A compulsory exam in computer skills for younger secondary pupils will also be introduced in 2002.