1. A compiler of the type for receiving and compiling a source program in a predetermined programming language, and wherein said source program assigns attributes to data items employed in said program and said programming language including attribute grammar rules with which said attribute assignments must comply, said compiler including attribute analysis means for checking the consistency of attributes assigned to a particular data item by said program and for selectively assigning default attributes to said data items, said attribute analysis means comprising a table-driven attribute parser including a syntax table and a parse driver for verifying that said attribute assignments comply with said attribute grammar rules.