A benchmark problem for digital robust control design is described. The robustness in stability and in performance of eight solutions to this benchmark which have been presented at the 1995 European Control Conference in Rome (Italy) are evaluated. The eight controllers have been designed using several different methods, including discrete time H∞ optimisation, quantitative feedback theory, non-integer order control, generalised predictive control, combined pole placement/sensitivity function shaping and model free optimisation. Simulations and-experimental results are given.