Editor writes: Bring back Action man

The government?s relationship with Action 2000 and the head of independent Action 2000, Robin Guenier, could be about to become intriguing.

Having worked extremely hard to reinvent the wheel ? to put in place measures recommended much earlier by Guenier?s Taskforce 2000 ? Action 2000 is now being roundly criticised for time-wasting and duplication of effort. Understandably, the organisation feels irritated by even the constructive public criticism of those who wish its project well.

Meanwhile, Guenier is busy capturing the headlines, and has become a much more effective advocate of action and awareness ever since he was fired by the DTI. It has taken courage and commitment for him to continue along this route, and every IT professional in the country should salute his resolve. But friends say he may now consider joining forces with Action 2000.

Guenier?s return to the fold would make a big difference. His is the most recognisable voice in the media when it comes to the millennium, and his presence alongside Don Cruikshank and Ian Eddison would be invaluable.

What could stand in the way of such a sensible arrangement? The answer is known only to Barbara Roche, the junior DTI minister who sacked Guenier several months ago when he asked publicly for more money.

We urge the minister to rethink her position. What is important is that the government should be capable of unifying the national effort in the face of a national crisis. Sadly, most would agree that this is not happening at the moment.