Written question asked by Bernard Jenkin (Conservative) on Thursday, 26 February 1998, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 23 March 1998. It was answered by Donald Dewar (Labour) on Monday, 23 March 1998 on behalf of the Scottish Office.

Scottish Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what contingency plans he will establish in case of computer failure on 1st January 2000 in respect of (a) the police, (b) the Fire Service and (c) the Ambulance Service in Scotland. - (Holding answer 3 March 1998).

Answer: Mr. Jenkin: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what contingency plans he will establish in case of computer failure on 1 January 2000 in respect of (a) the police, (b) the Fire Service and (c) the Ambulance Service in Scotland. [32747] Mr. Dewar: [holding answer 3 March 1998]: Police and Fire Service computer systems in Scotland are a matter for individual authorities and joint boards. My officials are discussing with the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA) how best to ensure that councils can demonstrate that they are effectively addressing the Year 2000 problem. The Scottish Ambulance Service is being asked by my Department to participate in the quarterly progress reporting of Scottish Health Service Year 2000 compliance activities. This will include reports on contingency plans.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 32747; 309 c39W
Session: 1997-98
Subjects: Software Ambulance services Emergencies Fire and rescue services Local government Police Planning Millennium compliance Millennium Local government services Scotland Convention of Scottish Local Authorities Scottish Ambulance Service