Written question asked by David Gauke (Conservative) on Monday, 22 January 2007, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 24 January 2007. It was answered by Ivan Lewis (Labour) on Tuesday, 6 February 2007 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Open Source Software

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what percentage of her Department's computer systems use open source software; what percentage of the systems planned to be installed use such software; and whether she plans to increase the use of open source software in her Department.

Answer: The Department does not hold specific information on the use of open source software within the Department but has identified one system involving library services that utilises open source components in its implementation.The Department is currently reviewing the tools and technologies that it uses to support the delivery of the business. As part of that review consideration will be given to the use of open source tools alongside other proprietary tools and technologies.When considering the implementation of any solution, the Department will continue to consider open source solutions on an overall value for money basis in accordance with the Government's 2004 policy statement.

Secondary information