Senior civil servants gathered yesterday to brainstorm new plans to lead the service into the 21st Century.

About 60 civil servants gathered at the Southampton Princess for the start of a seminar designed to draw up new strategies and make departments more efficient and user-friendly.

They will take part in workshops and lectures, given by visiting international experts, for two days.

Yesterday Cabinet Secretary Leo Mills, Premier David Saul and Governor Lord Waddington addressed the civil servants about the seminar and the roles they have to play.

Mr. Mills said: "This seminar is an historic event, the first of its kind involving more than 60 of the most senior officers in the public service.

"There has been concern by Governments for improving the management of their public services, giving better value for money and becoming more user-friendly.'' He added that the seminar would also aim to set up training methods and a scheme to identify and train potential senior civil servants.

"No doubt there will be criticism of this event as a waste of time and money or as another perk.

"But training ought to be an integral part of the career-long development process for senior civil servants.'' Lord Waddington, who has served as a British Government Minister, said a country depended on the quality of its civil service. "This is a well-run country by any standards. There is a lot to be proud of.'' He said the civil service was a country's "anchor'' and had to show courage against improper political pressure.

"It is therefore vitally important that as senior managers you reinforce this culture of independence and integrity so we can be sure that in the future, that whatever stresses and strains the system has to face, no-one is found wanting,'' added the Governor.

Dr. Saul told the civil servants that many new challenges would have to be faced such as new technology.

"It is my hope that each of you will leave this seminar with a clear insight into the strategies that will help you move confidently into the 21st Century.''