Science Update: Dear Sir or Computer . . .

COMPANIES in the US are using an 'intelligent' computer to scan CVs of job applicants and weed out those it considers unsuitable. Apple Computer, Nike, Wells Fargo and AT&T are using the system - which its developers claim can scan 900 applications a day. The system, from a company based in Silicon Valley called Resumix, evaluates candidates' backgrounds and tells recruiters if they meet the basic requirements.