Computer Systems: Independent Testing
Debate between Lord Sharpe of Epsom and Baroness Goldie(2 months, 2 weeks ago)
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Lord Sharpe of Epsom (Con)
My Lords, that is clearly among the things that are being considered.
Baroness Goldie (Con)
My Lords, does the Minister agree that there is a related issue of computer-based evidence? The Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 stated that computer-based evidence should be subject to proof that the computer system was operating properly. That changed, in 1999, to a presumption that a computer system has operated correctly unless there is explicit evidence to the contrary. That change was supported by the Post Office and coincided with the introduction of the Horizon IT system. Does my noble friend agree that this area needs to be looked at?
Lord Sharpe of Epsom (Con)
My noble friend raises a very good point. If I may, I will look into the specifics of her question and write to her.