London Government accused of failing to use Open Source

Darren Johnson, a representative of the Green Party, has stated that the London local government has too many plans “in the pipeline” and not enough being delivered despite updates to the Open Source Policy. He believes that a “major push towards progress” is needed to ensure the governments action plan is implemented.

The government policy promises to use Open Source software where it gives best value for money to the taxpayer. The use of Open Source solutions is just one part of the governments ICT strategy.

Currently the Greater London Authority ,led by Boris Johnson, does use Opens Source solutions to run its website, office infrastructure and is also used by Transport for London. Boris Johnson admits that although other departments, including the Metropolitan Police Authority and the London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority, are trailing in the use of Open Source solutions, they are still fully committed to using them under the right circumstances.

The Green Party believes that Open Source solutions are the way forward for all areas of the Government and that implementing these solutions may save the taxpayer up to £600 million.