THE Government has launched a new campaign to try to raise awareness of the dangers of the millennium bug. A new £1 million advertising initiative comes in the wake of the Government's attempt to train 20,000 staff from small and medium-sized business as an 'army of bugbusters'.

Only 300 people have been trained since the launch in March, forcing the Government to launch the new campaign to try to attract more employers into training staff. Education and employment minister George Mudie has condemned many companies for thinking they can avoid the problem, or overcome it simply by installing new computers.

He said: 'The Government is concerned at the huge number of small businesses in Britain which so far appear to be taking this issue very lightheartedly. What they are facing is going out of business. We are now offering free bug training and the short courses are delivered by accredited training providers who meet industry quality standards. Training is available throughout the country and tailored to businesses' needs.'

Fleets and companies seeking more information should contact the training hotline on 0845 6091100, to get details on a local course. The Government says one employee from each firm needs to be trained.