§ Dan NorrisTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what key targets have been set for the Defence Evaluation and Research Agency for the financial year 1999–2000. [93790]
§ Mr. SpellarThe key targets set for the Defence Evaluation and Research Agency for the financial year 1999–2000 are as follows:
1. Return on capital employed
Consistent with Treasury requirements, to achieve at least 6 per cent. return on capital employed.
2. Manpower charging rates
To set manpower chargeout rates for 2000–01 which reflect a reduction in DERA overheads compared with 1999–2000 budgeted levels.
202W3. New business
To increase new business income (from customers other than the MOD) to £140M in 1999–2000.
4. Professional standing
To increase the number of staff elected as Fellows of professional bodies by 10 per cent.
5. Progress on work
To achieve on time 90 per cent. of the agreed milestones on work for MOD customers.
6. Customer satisfaction
To increase the level of customer satisfaction, as measured by customer surveys.
7. Defence diversification
To establish at least six Defence Diversification Offices across the UK.
Three year rolling targets carried over from 1998–99:
Over a period of three years, to achieve a 20 per cent. increase in peer reviewed publications per professional.
Over a period of three years, to increase by 50 per cent. the number of scientific teams assessed as 'world class' in the technical assessment exercise.
§ Dr. Lynne JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the reason for the purchase of protective shields for mobile phones by the Defence Evaluation and Research Agency together with an explanation of the perceived use of such devices. [93285]
§ Mr. SpellarI will write to my hon. Friend and a copy of my letter will be placed in the Library of the House.