§ Mr. AtkinsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement of progress on the introduction of information technologies to facilitate internal communications in his Department and the provision of information to the public concerning those areas for which he is responsible; and if he has any further plans to apply the newest technologies in these fields.
§ Mr. MellorPersonal computers are used extensively throughout the Department, and many already communicate via an electronic mail service or over local area networks.
We are refining further our information technology (IT) strategy, which includes the development of a centrally maintained IT-based information centre. This system draws data from the NHS for use by top management and Ministers.
The Department's information technology branch keeps abreast of developments in the IT field and plans are constantly updated to improve our internal communications facilities where appropriate.