A six-point action plan has been drawn up to ensure that rural businesses beat the dreaded Millennium Bug.

It is the latest move from the NFU Mutual, the country's leading rural insurer, as the hours tick away to the year 2000.

It comes amid reports claiming that the Government is concerned about the knock-on effect of the Millennium Bug on various services.

The threat to farmers and other rural businesses stems from the fear that many computers and chip-embedded electronic systems might not recognise the date change to the year 2000 but only the last two digits or will think it is 1900 so corrupting the data or shutting down.

The NFU Mutual has been urging its policyholders for some time to make sure that their equipment is year 2000 compliant by having a full audit.

Leaflets and action plan booklets have been issued to customers who might be affected.

Its network of inspectors, surveyors and agents are also reminding businesses and individuals of the need to take urgent action.

It is being stressed that such businesses cannot expect the NFU Mutual's field force to be electronic experts and resolve potential problems. The insurance market will not cover year 2000 losses - apart from fire and special perils cover.

"While many people will no doubt be welcoming in the New Year in the usual style, it could prove to be a major hangover for rural businesses," said NFU Mutual's loss control manager, Pamela Oldfield.

At risk are: ventilation and heating systems in glasshouses; cooling systems in milking parlours; lighting and security; temperature controls in cold stores; automatic feeding systems in pig and poultry houses; recording and handling procedures; anti-fire sprinklers; drainage. If those systems fail then it could have a knock-on effect on the ability to meet tight supply schedules to customers of farmers and growers.

Farmers and growers are being urged to follow a straightforward action plan:

Make a full inventory of computer and electronic equipment

Get the equipment checked professionally

Check the situation with the suppliers and makers of the equipment

Seek technical and possibly legal advice

In farm offices take steps to avoid the loss of records and general book-keeping

Check your suppliers of other goods are also year 2000 compliant

An information pack called The Millennium Bug has been prepared by the NFU Mutual and one copy is available free to each NFU Mutual policyholder. For those who want more than one copy or non-NFU members there is a price of £10 a copy via NFU Mutual local agents.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.