§ Mr. Tony Lloydasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will describe the improvement brought about by the HOLMES system and the MIRIAM system for invesigating major incidents; and if he will make a statement on HOLMES.
§ Mr. HurdThe specification for the computer system for use in major investigations, known as HOLMES, is expected to be issued in the next few weeks. In comparison with the experimental MIRIAM system, it will provide better facilities for administration of the investigation; more advanced methods of indexing and retrieving information; more extensive facilities for comparing the database of linked incidents; the capacity to produce more comprehensive card indices; and it will be easier to use.
For further information I would refer the hon. Member to the reply that I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Keighley (Mr. Waller) on 27 July.