Suppliers attack DTI schools plan

A DTI initiative to provide refurbished computers to schools has come under attack from IT suppliers to the education market just months before its planned launch.

Phil Hemmings, head of communications at educational specialist Research Machines, said: 'The DTI is on a loser. Schools don't want or need mis-matched PCs from here, there and everywhere.'

He added: 'This is the latest in a long line of suggestions that have never worked because they don't promote the benefits of IT.

The DTI confirmed it was working on the scheme, but refused to give details. A representative said: 'The main objectives are to provide advice on issues surrounding the supply of old IT equipment, which companies should consider.'

The DTI has contracted the Alternative Energy Association (ASA) to carry out a viability study.

Ian Pomeroy, strategic consultant at the AEA's technical environment wing, said the impetus for the initiative had come from the impending EU directive on end of life electronics equipment.

The directive is expected to place greater onus on the producer to ensure end of life electronic kit is disposed of responsibly.

Pomeroy said the AEA had questioned a variety of resellers, vendors, parts brokers and recyclers about their ability to provide large numbers of refurbished multimedia computers to schools.

Vivienne Williams, environmental and quality co-ordinator at Portsmouth computer reseller and recycler Intex, said she received a questionnaire, but knew little about how the scheme would work.

The initiative is expected to be launched at a DTI conference on 29 October.