§ Mr. Malcolm BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what funding is presently committed from his departmental budget for(a) 1997–98, (b) 1998–99 and(c) 1999–2000 to resolve the 2000 computer problem; and if he will make a statement. [11900]
§ Mr. SpellarIn accordance with guidelines issued by the Cabinet Office and the Central Computer and Telecommunications Agency Year 2000 Public Sector Group, my Department is examining its computer systems to determine their susceptibility, if any, to the year 2000 problem and to produce plans for the necessary modifications. The estimated costs of these modifications will not be available until later this year. My Department 475W has also stressed the importance of this issue to industry. For all new procurements, the Department is insisting year 2000 compliance as a condition of contract.