Millennium bug 'may disable NHS'

THE NHS cannot guarantee the safety of patients in its care as the threat of the millennium computer bug inches closer, according to an MPs' report today.

With less than 500 days until the date change that could dramatically affect computer systems around the world, the Public Accounts Committee has expressed its concern that the public sector is not ready to deal with problem.

The report said that the NHS "got off to a late start in tackling year 2000 issues", and that potential problems with medical equipment "could be life threatening". The chairman of the committee, David Davis, said: "There are worrying signs that not all of the public sector will be ready in time.

"In the NHS this could mean that, in extreme circumstances, patients' lives could be at risk."

Mr Davis added that should extra funds be needed from NHS Trusts "it is vital that the department make their case to the Treasury in good time".

In a reaction to the report, the NHS Confederation, which represents health authorities and trusts, said deaths were "unlikely", and only 1 per cent of devices would be affected. Its chief executive, Stephen Thornton, said that, given the correct funding: "We can give an assurance that the NHS will be fully functional."

A Cabinet Office spokeswoman said: "Top priority is being given to ensure that essential public services will not be disrupted."