The UK Prison Service’s computerisation project, known as LIDS, or Local Inmates Database System, part of the Home Office’s HOUSE initiative – Home Office Unix Systems Environment (CI No 1,153) has awarded its first contract to Bull HN Information Systems Ltd, for 128 Unix XPS-100 systems valued at UKP3.5m. The systems, together with 1,700 terminals, will be installed in prisons around the country by the end of 1992, to provide comprehensive details on all inmates. Bull has the additional job of integrating its own kit with other hardware and software from Motorola Codex, Bouldon James, Chloride Power Electronics and Dataflex (Management Information) Services. This project is the first of many expected to come from UK central government that will specify Unix as the basis of procurement.
