HC Deb 11 November 1999 vol 337 cc837-8W
Mr. Todd

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what steps he has taken to address the lack of a business or communication strategy identified in the Coopers and Lybrand review of Common Agricultural Policy administration. [97674]

Ms Quin

In its Business Plan for 1999–2000, published in May 1999, my Department set out its aims, objectives and targets, including objective 6 on CAP administration. The Plan sets out the context of this work, the key challenges, the MAFF programmes which contribute to it and the targets and output and performance measures which apply. These targets and other issues are also communicated through the Public Service Agreement, the Output and Performance Analyses and the Departmental Report.

Plans and targets are being communicated internally to help ensure that staff at all levels know what their work unit is about and are clear on their role and responsibilities within it. This forms part of the Department's Internal Communications Strategy, established in July 1998 following consultation with staff. The Strategy is currently being reviewed to ensure that it continues to meet the Department's business needs.