COMPUTER MILLENNIUM COMPLIANCE

Early day motion 497, tabled 25 November 1997 by David Atkinson (Conservative). Signed by 37 members.

That this House now recognises the immense problems that will arise from the failure of the majority of computer systems to recognise the year 2000 unless action is taken without any further delay; notes with concern the DTI/Taskforce 2000 survey indicating that less than 10 per cent. of small and medium size firms have completed a full audit and 57 per cent. plan no budget until 1999, and the Cap Gemini survey indicating that '29 per cent, of GDP will be at risk of becoming 37 per cent. if the timetable slips by another three months'; commends the work of Taskforce 2000, but for whom the situation would be worse, and the Government on establishing Action 2000 to provide more advice and assistance to the private sector; nonetheless believes that the widespread ignorance and complacency that still exists can be further reduced by the passing of the Companies (Millennium Computer Compliance) Bill through both Houses; and urges the Government to enable it to proceed without obstruction following its Second Reading on 28th November.

Signatures by party: Labour 25, Conservative 6, Liberal Democrat 3, Plaid Cymru 1, Scottish National Party 1, UUP 1.