1. In a multi-record circulating loop memory system, apparatus for sorting the data records contained therein comprising a plurality of circulating loop means having k record positions therein for storing k data records, where k is a positive integer, and wherein columns of data records are formed comprising a data record from each circulating loop means and where said data records forming said columns are disposed in the same record position within their respective circulating loop means; first data processing circuit means for performing data comparisons of a predetermined type suitable for sorting in accordance with predetermined criteria, said comparisons being performed in each of said columns between data records disposed in the same column and re-ordering said data records within their respective columns according to said comparisons; second data processing circuit means for precessing the data records stored within said memory system such that the data records disposed in each circulating loop means are shifted a record position, in a common direction, with respect to the data records in the next preceding circulating loop means; and means for coupling data manipulation control signals from said memory system to said first and second data processing circuit means including signals for operating said first and second data processing circuit means alternately wherein, subsequent to k operations of said first data processing circuit means and k-1 operations of said second data processing circuit means, the data records stored in each circulating loop means are sorted with respect to the data records disposed in every other circulating loop means.