§ Mr. IngramTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what assessment he has made of the cost effects of the millennium date change on the computer systems operated by his Department. [2616]
§ Sir Paul BeresfordMy Department is aware of the potential problems to departmental computer systems that may be caused by the millennium date change. As previously stated when answering the same question in468W June of this year, our replacement programme for older systems should ensure a high level of 2000 compliance. Notwithstanding this we are undertaking a study taking guidance from colleagues in CCTA-CITU which will produce a year 2000 compliance audited inventory of systems to form the basis of a costed departmental year 2000 programme. The Department is also working with others as a participant of the year 2000 public sector group.