New Media Awards 2008

Philip Virgo

Nominated in Inform and educate category.

Philip Virgo is Secretary General of EURIM, the Parliament/Industry body, set up in 1994, to promote IT policy in Government. Before that he was present at the birth of the Parliamentary IT Committee, 27 years ago. His blog, hosted by Computer Weekly was set up last year.

1 nomination from readers

  • What is often missing in the formation of IT policy is a historical perspective. Hence many of today's public sector computer disasters. Philip's blog looks at today's initiatives and events from a standpoint of nearly 30 years in crafting IT policy. He knows what has worked and what hasn't. More importantly, he knows where the bodies are buried around Westminster and Whitehall. In the IT world, where most people's mental horizons are around five minutes, this is very rare and valuable! Any Civil Servant, politician, academic or policy wonk involved in IT policy should use it to inform or educate themselves. It might even help them from imbibing the latest IT snake-oil.

    Nominated by Richard Sarson, 05 May 2008

4 comments from readers

  • Have known Philip since the very early days of PITCOM and have worked with him on numerous EURIM activities. His knowledge of IT in government is unrivalled and I am delighted his wise words are reaching a wider audience.

    Submitted by Andrew Hardie, 12 May 2008

  • I have know Philip for a relatively short period of time, but in this time I have come to admire his enthusiasm, knowledge and commitment. He is at the forefront of the interface between politics and ICT and works tirelessly to promote good standards.

    Submitted by Ed Phelps, 28 May 2008

  • Philip has a vast array of knowledge of behind the scenes Westminster and has a knack of blogging at several different levels, catering at the same time for the general Computer Weekly.com general reader as well as for the real insiders within government. I have heard many insiders say they look forward to Philip's blog, and it is the sounding board for helping clear political log jams. I support this application strongly.

    Submitted by John Riley, 24 June 2008

  • I fully support this nomination for a man who has dedicated so much time and effort, with a clear objective of 'doing'.

    Submitted by John Walker, 12 July 2008

Post your comment

Rate this nomination

Rate this nomination from 1 to 5 (5 = best).

We want to encourage people to comment on our content and to exchange views with other readers and hope this will be done on a courteous basis. However, if you encounter posts which are offensive please let us know by emailing comments@newstatesman.co.uk and we will take swift action where necessary.