HC Deb 14 April 1999 vol 329 c271W
Mr. Malcolm Bruce

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what estimate he has made of expenditure to date by the NHS to resolve the year 2000 computer problem; and if he will make a statement. [79726]

Mr. Denham

An analysis of quarterly monitoring returns for the period ended 31 December 1998, the latest available, shows the estimated total cost to be approximately £321 million. Further estimates will become available as future returns are made.

Mr. Malcolm Bruce

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans the NHS has made to limit the risks to the provision of NHS services as a consequence of the year 2000 computer problem; and if he will make a statement.[79727]

Mr. Denham

There is a comprehensive programme for National Health Service Year 2000 preparations that reports progress via my right hon. Friend the President of the Council's quarterly statements to Parliament. The programme ensures that NHS organisations minimise the risks to the provisions of NHS services as a consequence of the year 2000 problem through the provision of guidance, attention to external suppliers, frequent monitoring of progress, independent assessment, performance management and disclosure of progress.