§ 109. Mr. Ian Lloydasked the Minister for the Civil Service whether he will publish the detailed technical and financial criteria employed by Her Majesty's Government in selecting computers, computer systems and peripheral equipment for government use.
§ Mr. ShoreThe selection of computers and associated equipment for use in government is based upon an evaluation of the price, performance and delivery date of the systems under tender. The relative importance of each of the three criteria varies in particular schemes. 257W Discounted Cash Flow techniques are used for cost comparisons. Performance is determined by engineering appraisals and, where appropriate, by benchmarks and other tests.
§ 110. Mr. Ian Lloydasked the Minister for the Civil Service whether he will arrange for the publication of an analysis of the application of computer selection criteria to each order for a computer placed by Her Majesty's Government for which the contract price exceeded £500,000.
§ Mr. ShoreNo, Sir. It is not the practice to disclose confidential information in particular cases on computer costs and technical features of equipment offered by contractors.