Grant Paton-Simpson pointed me to an article in Computerworld that begins with the encouraging words:

The UK's Tories could order the wholesale introduction of open source IT systems if they are returned to office at the next election.

Further on the article notes:

Thompson's report said savings "would come not just from reduced licensing costs, but importantly by freeing government bodies from long-term, monopoly supply situations."

Given the close political ties that exist (left and right) between here and the UK it would be nice to see a similar approach supported by John Key and Steven Joyce. I reported on a meeting we had with Mr. Key last year where he certainly expressed a good understanding of FOSS and the positive impact it can have.

Whether this understanding will be reflected in policy remains to be seen.

In the mean time, read the full article.