HC Deb 31 July 1997 vol 299 cc645-6W
Mr. David Atkinson

To ask the President of the Board of Trade if she will make a statement on the outcome of her review of her Department's policy towards tackling the problem of the failure of the majority of computer systems to recognise the year 2000. [12022]

Mrs. Roche

I am working closely with Taskforce 2000 on the serious problem facing businesses large and small. Many businesses are aware of the problem, but too few are taking action with the necessary urgency. We are shifting the emphasis of the campaign from general awareness to stimulating action, through many channels of communications, including financial auditors, banks and supply chains. We will be looking at progress in key sectors of the economy, and consulting on what more needs to be done.

On 22 July, I hosted the millennium information technology skills summit, which addressed the growing shortage of skills, which will be aggravated by the century date problem. I have asked participants to bring forward proposals for new initiatives and to make a report to me in September.

37. Mr. Colman

To ask the President of the Board of Trade what action is being taken by her Department in respect of the millennium compliance of computers. [10063]

Mrs. Roche

I refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave earlier to my hon. Friend the Member for Bradford, West, (Mr. Singh).