§ Mr. David Priceasked the Postmaster-General (1) if he will give details of the £4 million worth of computers already installed and in use in the Post Office;
(2) if he will give details of the 20 large modern computers which he aims to have in use in the Post Office by 262W 1971; and which of these will have random access and which will have sequential access.
§ Mr. Edward ShortThe Post Office has the following computers in service:—
A seventh LEO 326 will be added in the next few weeks.
- 6 English Electric LEO 326.
- 2 Elliott 803.
- 1 Elliott 503.
- 2 National/Elliott 405.
- 1 ICT 1201.
An order has been placed for 5 English Electric Systems 4/70 machines, with an option on four more. All these machines have disc stores, and are capable of providing random access facilities.
Further orders will be placed, as necessary, to meet the requirements of new or expanded projects.
§ Mr. Whitakerasked the Postmaster-General when he expects the public computers to be available for hire by individuals and firms.
§ Mr. Edward ShortWe have already installed six large modern computers and a seventh will be added in the next few weeks. Spare time on these installations will be available as soon as the Post Office (Data Processing Service) Bill becomes law. We have placed firm orders for a further five of the most modern computers, with an option on four more, and these will be installed to meet demand.