I have set the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (CEFAS) the following performance targets for 2008-09:

Service Delivery

Customer satisfaction to exceed 82 per cent.

To provide high standard of services to the satisfaction of customers. Measured through weighted average of customer response to post-contract survey that covers seven aspects of service quality.

Delivery of R&D milestones to exceed 90 per cent.

To fulfil commitments on time, within budget and to agreed standards of quality. Covers R&D milestones which support DEFRA’s strategic objectives and intermediate outcomes. Performance is reported as a proportion of agreed outputs weighted by contract value.

Science quality indicators to exceed 75 per cent.

To enhance scientific capability and reputation, using indicators grouped around research, wider dissemination and use of our science, and scientific capability. Measures include customer surveys, numbers of peer reviewed scientific papers and investment in new science.

Value for public money

Recover the full cost of our services

To demonstrate financial sustainability through sound operational financial management and appropriate investment in CEFAS’s future, including the delivery of CEFAS’s transformation plan. Measured through achieving an audited break-even result in 2008-09.

Efficiency savings to LSP plans

To operate with simple, reliable and effective processes in the support and delivery of customer projects. Performance against peer and competitor benchmarks will be used to monitor progress to deliver financial efficiency targets. These are set out in the re-phased LSP plans and include reducing administrative headcount and costs.

Capacity and capability

Relocate Burnham on Crouch in 2008-09

To invest in transformation in line with CEFAS’s long-term strategy, with successful relocation of Burnham on Crouch laboratories to Lowestoft during 2008-09 being a major milestone.

Staff satisfaction survey to exceed 65 per cent.

To respect and help the agency’s people to develop. Measured by an annual questionnaire to staff, using a weighted scale for the eight survey categories.

Further details are given in the CEFAS business plan 2008-09, copies of which will be placed in the Libraries of the House.