Electronic Random Number Indicator Equipment (ERNIE)

HC Deb 23 June 1980 vol 987 cc59-60W

Mr. Trotter

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the age of the ERNIE computer; how often it has been unable to work in recent times; and when it is planned to retire the computer in favour of a new smaller equivalent of a younger generation working on microchips.

Mr. Lawson

The electronic random number indicator equipment (ERNIE) is not a computer but equipment designed to produce numbers at random. A computer is used in processing the work of ERNIE. The present ERNIE and computer have been regularly in use since January 1973 without failure. Replacement is planned for 1986.

Mr. Trotter

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will arrange for the premium bond computer ERNIE to be checked to ensure its effective random operation, in the light of its recent allocations of the three top prizes to adjoining areas in central London.

Mr. Lawson

The premium savings bond draw numbers are checked independently by the Government Actuary's Department which certifies that it is satisfied with the randomness of the draw and that each eligible bond unit had an equal chance of being drawn for a prize.