Tue, 18 Nov 2008
EDM 2141 (My Followup)
So, as I have posted about previously, I have contacted both of my MPs about Early Day Motion 2141. They both responded, expressing their support for the motion. Which was nice.
However, I'm not satisfied with just their support for a fairly inconsequential EDM. So, I replied to both of them, thanking them, but also asking them to clarify both their position and the position of their party on free software. I wrote the following to Jim Cunningham, with roughly the same going to Stewart Jackson as well:
Another topic related to the publishing of bills in an accessible format, is the use of open formats within government, central and local. Hand in hand, I believe, with that comes the use of free software, sometimes known as open source software. I believe that our government cannot govern effectively if it has locked itself into proprietary formats and software, provided by companies that could, legally, hold all of the government's data hostage. Indeed, it seems downright irresponsible. As a long-time GNU/Linux user and free software developer, this is something that is very close to my heart.
It would be greatly appreciated if you could inform me of both your and your party's views on this matter. I would also be interested to hear what practical effect this has on the operations of the Labour party, and what practical effect it is having within Government.
I sent those replies yesterday evening, so I should hopefully have responses before the end of the week...
Posted: Tue, 18 Nov 2008 22:01 | | Comments: 0