In parallel with other scientific bodies, such as European Science and Technology Assembly and the European Science Foundation whose recommendations we strongly support, we should like to make some specific suggestions. We believe that the scientific infrastructure in Europe could be strengthened by taking these into account when the fifth Framework Programme is formulated. Indeed knowledge and skills are best acquired by training in high-level research. It is prepared to continue to do so in follow-up programmes. The support of conferences is essential for a better cooperation between EU countries on the one hand, but also with those in central and eastern Europe.
Conferences also contribute to better relations between the academic world and industry.
The funds for conferences should be increased and the programme should be handled in a more flexible way. Large facilities have proven to provide excellent infrastructure for interdisciplinary research and international cooperation. Although the principle of subsidiarity will limit the EU actions as far as the construction and operation of large facilities is concerned, the present programme for their use should be considerably increased in order to improve the exploitation and coordination of large facilities and provide better access for scientists from smaller and less developed countries. They deserve a special place in European research policy. Grants to such companies can be small and of an exploratory nature.