HC Deb 16 June 1999 vol 333 c143W
Mr. Bennett

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what performance targets have been set for the Industrial Research and Technology Unit for the financial year 1999–2000. [87564]

Mr. Ingram

The Industrial Research and Technology Unit is an Agency within the Department of Economic Development. Its prime strategic target is to raise the level of industrial R & D in Northern Ireland and in addressing this target the Agency also aims to operate efficiently and effectively and provide a quality service. Against this background the following key targets have been set for the Agency:

  • To achieve new user participation in the COMPLETE Programme of 20 per cent.
  • To increase the average industry contribution to projects funded under the COMPLETE Programme by 1 per cent.
  • To achieve an increase in R & D projects under the START Programme of 20 per cent.
  • To achieve full cost recovery for Scientific Services.
  • To maintain UKAS Accreditation for Scientific Services.