§ Gillian MerronTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what key targets have been set for the Meteorological Office for financial year 2002–03. [59660]
§ Mr. IngramThe chief executive of the Met Office is responsible for providing meteorological and related environmental services, including climate change prediction, to a wide range of customers, including the armed forces, Government, civil aviation, shipping, emergency services, media, commerce, industry and general public. The Met Office also undertakes research to meteorology and climate. This year, the Met Office will be set the following challenging targets.
477WKey Target 1
To achieve a value for the Numerical Weather Prediction Index of at least 109.5 on 31 March 2003, from a baseline of 100.0 on 31 March 2000.
Key Target 2
To achieve a value for the Service Quality Index of at least 115.4 on 31 March 2003, from a baseline of 100.0 on 31 March 1997, in line with customer requirements.
Key Target 3
A three-year target to achieve a value for the Efficiency Index of at least 111.6 by 31 March 2003 was announced last year, but has been passed ahead of schedule. A revised target is therefore set which is: To achieve a value for the Efficiency Index of at least 120.5 on 31 March 2003, from a baseline of 100.0 on 31 March 2000.
Key Target 4
To ensure a positive Return On Capital Employed in 2002–03, while returning an operating profit of at least £13.3 million before strategic investments.
Key Target 5
To achieve strategic investment in 2002–03 or £19.4 million ±£1.5 million.
Key Target 6
To achieve a total contribution from commercial activities in 2002–03 of at least £3.8 million.
Key Target 7
To achieve a value for the Staff Skills Index of at least 107.5 by 31 March 2004, from a baseline of 100.0 as at 31 March 2001.