HC Deb 06 March 1998 vol 307 c811W
Mrs. Dunwoody

To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what procedures he has in place to ensure that difficulties with computer systems experienced by one Government Department or agency are shared with other Government Departments and agencies. [31282]

Dr. David Clark

CCTA collects best practice where it arises in government and in co-operation with industry, and through central initiatives funded by the CITU on behalf of OPS, as typified by their current work with departments and agencies on the year 2000 date change. It provides a number of mechanisms to enable government departments and agencies to share both positive and negative IT experiences. These include: two groups which cater specifically for the needs of larger and smaller organisations; the publishing of best practice advice and guidance, and case studies based on departmental experiences; an inter-departmental forum funded by departments for information exchange known as the CCTA Foundation; and the delivery of direct services to departments on a full repayment basis.