Written question asked by Bob Spink (Conservative) on Thursday, 1 April 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 19 April 2004. It was answered by Baroness Winterton of Doncaster (Labour) on Monday, 19 April 2004 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, what plans he has to update computer (a) hardware and (b) software standard packages used in his Department.

Answer: Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to update computer (a) hardware and (b) software standard packages used in his Department. [166367] Ms Rosie Winterton: The Department ensures the currency of its information technology infrastructure through a regular programme of renewals. It is currently engaged in a major modernisation of its IT infrastructure and computers, installing Microsoft Windows XP and Microsoft Office XP on its desktop and laptop computers. With regard to hardware, including desktop equipment, the Department has a replacement cycle of at least four years, with five to seven years or longer for central servers, and other network components. Software is replaced or upgraded, as needed, and to keep it in line with suppliers' support arrangements, and where necessary, to meet enhanced business requirements. The Department will consider open source software in its future upgrade path.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 420 c256W; 166367
Session: 2003-04
Subjects: Software Computers ICT Government departments Department of Health
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk