UK government backs open source

The UK government has said it will accelerate the use of open source
software in public services.

Tom Watson MP, minister for digital engagement, said open source
software would be on a level playing field with proprietary software
such as Windows.

Open source software will be adopted "when it delivers best value for
money", the government said.

It added that public services should where possible avoid being
"locked into proprietary software".

Licenses for the use of open source software are generally free of
charge and embrace open standards, and the code that powers the
programs can be modified without fear of trampling on intellectual
property or copyright.

According to some in the open source industry, the shift from
proprietary standards could save the government £600m a year.

Simon Phipps, chief open source officer for Sun Microsystems, said the
UK government's stance was part of a "global wave" of take up for open
source in governments.

"We waste a fortune on proprietary computer software because of paying
for licenses and promises up front and not demanding value," he said.

Mr Phipps said schools, government departments and public services
would have a "crucial freedom" because of the choice of whether to pay
for support and training when using open source software.