UK Border Agency Signs IBM as Strategic Systems Integration Partner for Immigration Case Work Program

First Phase Contract Awarded to IBM for Overall Design of Systems

LONDON - The UK Border Agency (UKBA), responsible for securing the United Kingdom borders and controlling migration in the United Kingdom, today announced it has signed IBM (NYSE: IBM) as the Strategic Systems Integration Partner for its Immigration Case Work (ICW) Program.

The first phase of the new three-year contract awarded to IBM, with options to extend for a further 4 years, is the beginning of a new strategic partnership between IBM and the UK Border Agency. Working in conjunction with UKBA, IBM will provide consulting and systems integration services and deliver the overall design of the new IT system to support the applications process for visas and immigration.

UKBA states the ICW is key to delivering its objective to streamline immigration processes, promote new ways of working and make substantial improvements to IT.

Head of Immigration at the UKBA, Matthew Coats, said, “I am delighted that IBM has been appointed as systems integrator for the ICW program. I look forward to working together to deliver a first class case working capability. The ICW program is integral to our work as we carry out the biggest shake up of the immigration system for a generation. It will help us to make fast and fair decisions and manage migration for the benefit of the British public.”

Graham Perrott, Public Sector Leader, IBM Global Business Services, said, “Following Project Semaphore, part of the Government’s e-Borders program, this agreement extends an already successful relationship with UKBA. As a globally integrated organization, we’ve been able to draw upon similar contracts won around the world.”

The contract was signed in December 2008.

Notes to editors
Today’s announcement concludes the earlier IPS statement on the Immigration Case Work Program from the 12th Sept 2008: http://www.ips.gov.uk/passport/press-2008-09-12.asp

About UK Border Agency
For further information visit: www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk.

About IBM
For more information about IBM in the UK public sector, visit: ibm.com/easyaccess/publicsector.