P6_TA(2006)0520

Specific Programme "Capacities" (Seventh RTDD Framework Programme, 2007-2013) *

European Parliament legislative resolution on the proposal for a Council decision on the Specific Programme "Capacities" implementing the 7th Framework Programme (2007-2013) of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities (COM(2005)0443 — C6-0384/2005 — 2005/0188(CNS))

(Consultation procedure)

The European Parliament,

- having regard to the Commission proposal to the Council (COM(2005)0443) [1] and the amended proposal (COM(2005)0443/2) [1],

- having regard to Article 166 of the EC Treaty, pursuant to which the Council consulted Parliament (C6-0384/2005),

- having regard to Rule 51 of its Rules of Procedure,

- having regard to the report of the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy and the opinions of the Committee on Budgets and of the Committee on Culture and Education (A6-0371/2006),

1. Approves the Commission proposal as amended;

2. Considers that the indicative financial reference amount indicated in the legislative proposal must be compatible with the ceiling of heading 1a of the financial framework for 2007-2013 and points out that the annual amount will be decided within the annual budgetary procedure in accordance with the provisions of point 38 of the Interinstitutional Agreement between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline and sound financial management of 17 May 2006 [2];

3. Calls on the Commission to alter its proposal accordingly, pursuant to Article 250(2) of the EC Treaty;

4. Calls on the Council to notify Parliament if it intends to depart from the text approved by Parliament;

5. Asks the Council to consult Parliament again if it intends to amend the Commission proposal substantially;

6. Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council and Commission.

TEXT PROPOSED BY THE COMMISSION | AMENDMENTS BY PARLIAMENT |

Amendment 1

Recital 4

(4) The Framework Programme should complement the activities carried out in the Member States as well as other Community actions that are necessary for the overall strategic effort for the implementation of the Lisbon objectives, alongside in particular with those on structural funds, agriculture, education, training, competitiveness and innovation, industry, health, consumer protection, employment, energy, transport and environment. | (4) The Framework Programme should complement the activities carried out in the Member States and by the Member States through their participation in European intergovernmental research organisations as well as other Community actions that are necessary for the overall strategic effort for the implementation of the Lisbon objectives, alongside in particular those on structural funds, agriculture, education, training, culture, competitiveness and innovation, industry, health, consumer protection, employment, energy, transport and the environment. |

Amendment 2

Recital 9

(9) Research activities carried out within this programme should respect fundamental ethical principles, including those which are reflected in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, | (9) Research activities carried out within this programme should respect fundamental ethical principles, including those which are reflected in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union and reassert the civic and humanistic values of research, ensuring respect for ethnic and cultural diversity. |

Amendment 3

Recital 10

(10) The Framework Programme should contribute towards promoting sustainable development. | (10) The Framework Programme must contribute towards promoting sustainable development. |

Amendment 4

Recital 11a (new)

| (11a) To simplify calls for proposals and reduce costs, the Commission should set up a database as a prerequisite for notifying participants in calls for proposals. |

Amendment 5

Article 3a, paragraph 1 (new)

| Article 3a 1. The Commission shall take all necessary steps to verify that the actions financed are carried out effectively and in compliance with the provisions of the Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002. |

Amendment 6

Article 3a, paragraph 2 (new)

| 2. The overall administrative expenditure of the Specific Programme, including internal and management expenditure for the executive agency which it is proposed to set up, should be proportional to the activities undertaken under the Specific Programme and is subject to the decision of the budgetary and legislative authorities. |

Amendment 7

Article 3a, paragraph 3 (new)

| 3. Budget appropriations shall be used in accordance with the principle of sound financial management, namely in accordance with the principles of economy, efficiency and effectiveness, as well as the principle of proportionality. |

Amendment 8

Article 5, paragraph 3

3. Annex IV to this Specific Programme sets out an initiative for the joint implementation of national research programmes that would be the subject of a separate decision on the basis of article 169 of the Treaty. | 3. Annex IV to this Specific Programme sets out a possible initiative for the joint implementation of national research programmes that would be the subject of a separate decision on the basis of Article 169 of the Treaty. |

Amendment 9

Article 5a (new)

| Article 5a The Commission shall provide prior information to the budgetary authority whenever it intends to depart from the breakdown of expenditure stated in the remarks in and annex to the general budget of the European Union. |

Amendment 10

Article 6, paragraph 2

2. The Work Programme shall take account of relevant research activities carried out by the Member States, associated countries and European and international organisations. It shall be updated where appropriate. | 2. The Work Programme shall take account of relevant research activities carried out by the Member States, associated countries and European and international organisations, with the aim of increasing synergies with such activities, achieving European added value, influencing industrial competitiveness and maintaining relevance to other Community policies. It shall be updated where appropriate. |

Amendment 11

Article 7, paragraph 3a (new)

| 3a. The Commission shall ensure that the research results are evaluated and shall report on their contribution to a dynamic, knowledge-based society in Europe. |

Amendment 12

Article 8, paragraph 5

5. The Commission shall regularly inform the Committee of the overall progress of the implementation of the Specific Programme, and shall provide it with information about all RTD actions funded under this programme. | 5. The Commission shall regularly inform the Committee and the committee responsible within the European Parliament of the overall progress of the implementation of the Specific Programme, and shall provide them with information about all RTD actions funded under this programme. |

Amendment 13

Article 8, paragraph 5a (new)

| 5a. The Commission's report shall contain an assessment of the soundness of financial management and an evaluation of the efficiency and regularity of the budgetary and economic management of the programme. |

Amendment 14

Article 8a (new)

| Article 8a The Commission shall submit the present Decision and a report on the implementation of the Specific Programme to the competent bodies for review in sufficient time to ensure that the procedure for modifying this Decision can be completed by the end of 2010. |

Amendment 15

Annex I, Introduction, paragraph 1, indent 5

—Bringing science and society closer together for the harmonious integration of science and technology in European society; and | —Bringing science and society closer together for the harmonious integration of science and technology in European society; enabling existing EU, national or regional information help desks to provide SMEs, industry and knowledge institutions with full information on the Framework Programme, the Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Programme and the Structural Funds; and |

Amendment 16

Annex I, Introduction, paragraph 1, indent 6

—Horizontal actions and measures in support of international cooperation. | —Horizontal actions and measures in support of international cooperation, including cross-border and interregional cooperation. |

Amendment 17

Annex I, Introduction, paragraph 4

Actions for the coordination of non-Community programmes may be undertaken in this Specific Programme making use of the ERA-NET scheme and the participation of the Community in jointly implemented national research programmes (Treaty Article 169) as described in the Cooperation Specific Programme. | Actions for the coordination of non-Community programmes may be undertaken in this Specific Programme making use of the ERA-NET scheme and the participation of the Community in jointly implemented national research programmes (Article 169 of the Treaty) as described in the Cooperation Specific Programme. Actions will also be used to enhance the complementarity and synergy between the Framework Programme and activities carried out in the framework of intergovernmental structures. |

Amendment 18

Annex I, Introduction, subtitle "Coherent development of research policies", paragraph 3, bullet 1, subparagraph 1, indent 2

—An industrial research investment monitoring activity to provide a self-consistent and complementary source of information to help steer public policy and to allow firms to benchmark their R&D investment strategies. This will include periodic scoreboards of firm-and sector-level R&D investment, surveys of private R&D investment trends, analysis of factors affecting R&D investment decisions and practices of firms, analysis of economic impacts, and assessment of policy implications. | —An industrial research investment monitoring activity to provide an internally consistent and complementary source of information to help steer public policy and to enable firms in sectors of key interest to the EU economy to benchmark their R&D investment strategies. This will include periodic scoreboards of firm- and sector-level R&D investment, surveys of private R&D investment trends, analysis of factors affecting R&D investment decisions and practices of firms, analysis of economic impacts, and assessment of policy implications. |

Amendment 19

Annex I, Introduction, subtitle "Coherent development of research policies", paragraph 3, bullet 2, subparagraph 1

The aim is to strengthen the coordination of research policies via actions to support (i) the implementation of the open method of coordination (OMC) and (ii) bottom-up initiatives undertaken by several countries and regions, involving where appropriate other stakeholders (including industry, European organisations and civil society organisations). | The aim is to strengthen the coordination of research policies, where this can clearly create added value for research and innovation systems, via actions to support (i) the implementation of the open method of coordination (OMC) and (ii) bottom- up initiatives undertaken by several countries and regions, involving where appropriate other stakeholders (including industry, European organisations and civil society organisations). |

Amendment 20

Annex I, Introduction, subtitle "Coherent development of research policies", paragraph 3, bullet 2, subparagraph 3a (new)

| Special attention will be paid to: synergy in the development of research potential in combination with innovation-driven programmes and Structural Funds programmes;reducing administrative and physical hindrances to effective cross-border cooperation between regions in different Member States; andthe development of combined research and innovation capacity. |

Amendment 21

Annex I, Part 1, subtitle "Approach", paragraph 1

For Europe to become the most competitive and dynamic knowledge based economy in the world, modern and effective research infrastructures are critical in achieving science and technology leadership. Research infrastructures play a key role in the creation of knowledge, in the diffusion of knowledge and its application and exploitation, thus fostering innovation. Access to them is more and more indispensable in all fields of science and technology. Many Research Infrastructures have evolved from large facilities dedicated almost exclusively to a specific discipline, into service facilities for a broad variety of scientific communities. Enabled by information and communication technology, recent concepts of infrastructure are also expanding to include distributed systems of hardware, software and contents with an enormous cumulative value as repositories of knowledge in many diverse disciplines. | For Europe to become the most competitive and dynamic knowledge based economy in the world, modern and effective research infrastructures are critical in achieving science and technology leadership. Research infrastructures play a key role in the acquisition of knowledge, in the diffusion of knowledge and its application and exploitation, thus fostering innovation. Access to them is more and more indispensable in all fields of science, technology and evidence-based policy-making. Many Research Infrastructures have evolved from large facilities dedicated almost exclusively to a specific discipline, into service facilities for a broad variety of scientific communities. Enabled by information and communication technology, recent concepts of infrastructure are also expanding to include distributed systems of hardware, software and contents with an enormous cumulative value as repositories of knowledge in many diverse disciplines and for many diverse communities of users. |

Amendment 22

Annex I, Part 1, subtitle "Approach", paragraph 2

The proposed action will in particular contribute to the development, exploitation and preservation of knowledge, through its support to research infrastructures based both on a bottomup, excellence-driven approach and a targeted approach. The strategic upgrade of information and communication based e-Infrastructures is also seen as a driver in changing the way science is conducted. | The proposed action will in particular contribute to the development, exploitation and preservation of knowledge, through its support to research infrastructures based on both a bottomup, excellence-driven approach and a targeted approach consistent with available resources and key European priorities. The strategic upgrade of information and communication-based e-Infrastructures and virtual infrastructures is also seen as a key driver in changing the way scientific work is conducted and is supported by significant investment from public and private actors in all parts of Europe. Coordination with the Member States is essential to the development and funding of infrastructures. |

Amendment 23

Annex I, Part 1, subtitle "Approach", paragraph 3, introductory part

The term "Research infrastructures" in the context of the Community Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development refers to facilities, resources or services that are needed by the research community to conduct research in all scientific and technological fields. This definition covers, including the associated human resources: | The term "Research infrastructures" in the context of the Framework Programme refers to facilities, resources or services that are needed by the research community within public, private and civil society domains to conduct research in all scientific and technological fields. This definition covers, including the associated human resources: |

Amendment 24

Annex I, Part 1, subtitle "Activities", paragraph 1, indent 1

—optimising the utilisation of existing research infrastructures and improving their performance; | —as a priority, optimising the utilisation of existing research infrastructures and improving their performance; |

Amendment 25

Annex I, Part 1, subtitle "Activities", paragraph 1, indents 2 and 3

—foster the development of new research infrastructures (or major upgrades to existing ones) of pan-European interest, based on the work of ESFRI (European Strategy Forum on Research Infrastructures); | —fostering the development of new research infrastructures (or major upgrades to existing ones) of pan-European interest, including in particular the work of ESFRI (European Strategy Forum on Research Infrastructures); |

—support measures including support to emerging needs. | —support measures including support to emerging needs and technological development capacities in the convergence regions. |

Amendment 26

Annex I, Part 1, subtitle "Activities", point 1.1.1.

World-class research infrastructures need huge and long-term investments in resources (human and financial). They should be used and exploited by an as large as possible community of scientist and customer industries on a European scale. The EU should contribute to this objective through the promotion of Transnational Access. This is intended to open new opportunities for research teams to obtain access to the best research infrastructures, including research teams, from peripheral and outermost regions. This access may be made available to external users, either in person ("hands-on") or by suitable electronic communications. It may also take the form of provision of remote scientific services. This will be implemented through "bottom-up" calls for proposals open to all fields of science and technology without any preference for one field over another. | World-class research infrastructures need huge, long-term investments in resources (human and financial). They should be used and exploited by as large a community of scientist and consumer industries as possible, on a European scale. The EU should contribute to this objective through the promotion of Transnational Access. This is intended to open up new opportunities for research teams, including those from peripheral and outermost regions, to obtain access to the best research infrastructures. This access may be made available to external users, either in person ("hands-on") or by suitable electronic communications. It may also take the form of provision of remote scientific services. This will be implemented through "bottom-up" calls for proposals open to all fields of science and technology without any preference for one field over another. |

Amendment 27

Annex I, Part 1, subtitle "Activities", point 1.1.2., paragraph 2, indent 1

—"bottom-up" calls to catalyse the mutual coordination and the pooling of resources among infrastructures operators with the aim of fostering a culture of cooperation between them. Such activities should also aim at structuring better, on a European scale, the way research infrastructures operate, at fostering their joint development in terms of capacity and performance, and at promoting their coherent and cross-disciplinary use; | —"bottom-up" calls to catalyse mutual coordination and the pooling of resources among infrastructure operators with the aim of fostering a culture of cooperation among them. Such activities should also aim at structuring better, on a European scale, the way research infrastructures operate and making clearer to potential users how they operate and the conditions of access, at fostering their joint development in terms of capacity and performance and at promoting their coherent and cross disciplinary use; |

Amendment 74

Annex I, Part 1, subtitle "Activities", point 1.1.2., paragraph 2, indent 2

—"targeted calls" when such focused actions will be clearly beneficial to support potentially important research infrastructures in the long term, and speeding up their emergence at EU level. They will be implemented in close cooperation with the activities taking place in the thematic areas to ensure that all the actions undertaken at European level in the EU framework respond to the needs for research infrastructures in their respective area. Domains can already be identified for better use and strengthening of existing European infrastructures, fulfilling long-term strategic needs of academic, public and industrial research stakeholders and the society at large, such as for life sciences and its applications, information and communication technologies, the development of industrial research including metrology, support for sustainable development and in particular in the area of environment, and for social sciences and humanities. | —"targeted calls" when such focused actions will be clearly beneficial to support potentially important research infrastructures in the long term, and speeding up their emergence at EU level. They will be implemented in close cooperation with the activities taking place in the thematic areas to ensure that all the actions undertaken at European level in the EU framework respond to the needs for research infrastructures in their respective area. Domains can already be identified for better use and strengthening of existing European infrastructures, fulfilling long-term strategic needs of academic, public and industrial research stakeholders and the society at large, such as for life sciences and its applications, in particular clinical research infrastructues / networks for paediatric diseases, information and communication technologies, the development of industrial research including metrology, support for sustainable development and in particular in the area of environment, and for social sciences and humanities. |

Amendment 28

Annex I, Part 1, subtitle "Activities", point 1.1.3., paragraph 1

The deployment of e-Infrastructures provides persistent services to the research communities based upon complex processes designed to bring the power of distributed ICT based resources (computing, connectivity, instrumentation) to virtual communities. The reinforcement of a European approach and of related European activities in this domain can make a significant contribution to boosting European research potential and its exploitation, consolidating e-Infrastructures as a cornerstone of the European Research Area, a "forerunner" of cross discipline innovation and a driver in changing the way science is conducted. It may also contribute to integrate research teams from peripheral and outermost regions. | The deployment of e-Infrastructures provides essential services to the research communities based upon processes designed to bring the power of distributed ICT based resources (computing, connectivity, instrumentation) to virtual communities. The reinforcement of a European approach and of related European activities in this domain can make a significant contribution to boosting European research potential and its exploitation, consolidating e-Infrastructures as a cornerstone of the European Research Area, a "forerunner" of cross discipline innovation and a driver in changing the way science is conducted. It is also essential to integrate research teams from peripheral and outermost regions using this process. |

Amendment 29

Annex I, Part 1, subtitle "Activities", point 1.1.3., paragraph 3

It will be necessary to support in a coordinated way digital libraries, archives, data storage, data curation and the necessary pooling of resources, at European level, to organise the data repositories for the scientific community and future generations of scientists. The aspects of enhanced trust and confidence of e-Infrastructures will be addressed. The activities proposed will also aim at anticipating and integrating new requirements and solutions to facilitate the emergence of large scale test-beds designed to experiment with new disruptive technologies and to address new user requirements, including e-learning. The eIRG (e-Infrastructure Reflection Group) will assist on a regular basis with strategic recommendations. | It will be necessary to support in a coordinated way digital libraries (with a view to creating a European Digital Library), archives, data storage, data curation and the necessary pooling of resources, at European level, to organise the data repositories for the scientific community and future generations of scientists. The aspects of enhanced trust and confidence in e-Infrastructures will be addressed, with account being taken of the fact that future generations must be able to access the data. The activities proposed will also aim at anticipating and integrating new requirements and solutions to facilitate the emergence of large scale test-beds designed to experiment with new disruptive technologies and to address new user requirements, including elearning. The eIRG (e-Infrastructure Reflection Group) will assist on a regular basis with strategic recommendations. |

Amendment 30

Annex I, Part 1, subtitle "Activities", point 1.2, paragraph 1a (new)

| ESFRI as well as technology platforms, joint technology initiatives and the European Research Council will be requested to expressly state their needs for research infrastructure. |

Amendment 31

Annex I, Part 1, subtitle "Activities", point 1.2.2., paragraph 1 and paragraph 2, introductory part

To promote the creation of new research infrastructures based on the work conducted by ESFRI on the development of a European roadmap for new research infrastructures. The Commission will identify priority projects to which a possible EC support could be given under the Framework Programme. | To promote the creation of new research infrastructures in line with the "variable geometry" principle, including especially the work conducted by ESFRI on the development of a European roadmap for new research infrastructures. The work programme will include selected priority projects to which possible EC support could be given. |

The activity related to the construction of new infrastructures will be implemented in a two-stage approach: | The activity relating to the construction of new infrastructures will be implemented in a two-stage approach on the basis of a list of criteria laid down in the Framework Programme: |

Amendment 32

Annex I, Part 1, subtitle "Activities", point 1.2.2, paragraph 2, bullet 2

In the second stage, building on the achieved technical, legal, administrative and financial agreements, using notably the complementarity between national and Community instruments (such as the Structural funds or the European Investment bank), the construction plans would be implemented. The Framework Programme financial support for the construction phase may be provided to those priority projects for which there is a critical need for such support. In these cases, decisions will be taken through a mechanism that will depend on the nature and the level of funding required (e.g., direct grant; European Investment Bank loans, the access to which may be facilitated through the Risk Sharing Finance Facility (Annex III); Article 171). | In the second stage, building on the achieved technical, legal, administrative and financial agreements, using notably the complementarity between national and Community instruments (such as the Structural funds or the European Investment bank), the construction plans would be implemented with the involvement of the appropriate private financial institutions. The Framework Programme financial support for the construction phase may be provided to those priority projects for which there is a critical need for such support. In these cases, decisions will be taken through a mechanism that will depend on the nature and the level of funding required (e.g., direct grant; European Investment Bank loans, the access to which may be facilitated through the Risk Sharing Finance Facility (Annex III); Article 171). |

Amendment 33

Annex I, Part 1, subtitle "Activities", point 1.2.2a (new)

| 1.2.2.a "Open Innovation" centres To allow for single-site execution of major collaborative industrial R&D projects, with consortium partners seconding their staff on temporary postings and/or providing open access to research infrastructures and services on the basis of facility sharing. |

Amendment 34

Annex I, Part 1, subtitle "Activities", point 1.2.2.b (new)

| 1.2.2.b Sharing research results To establish a Scientific Methods Server which would make a significant contribution to the efficiency of research methods by making the results of certain research steps accessible under comparable conditions. |

Amendment 35

Annex I, Part 2, subtitle "Approach", paragraph 2

Specific actions will be implemented to support SMEs or SME associations in need of outsourcing research to universities and research centres ("RTD performers"). These actions will be carried out in the entire field of science and technology. The evaluation of the project proposals will take due account of the expected economic impact for the SMEs. Financial means will be allocated through two schemes: Research for SMEs and Research for SME associations. The first targets mainly low to medium technology SMEs with little or no research capability, but also research intensive SMEs who need to outsource research to complement their core research capability. The second targets SME associations which are normally best placed to know or identify the common technical problems of their members, to act on their behalf, and to promote the effective dissemination and take-up of the results. | Specific actions will be implemented to support SMEs or SME associations in need of outsourcing research to "RTD performers" such as universities, research centres and research intensive SMEs. These actions will be carried out across the entire field of science and technology. The evaluation of project proposals will take due account of the expected economic impact for SMEs. Financial means will be allocated through two schemes: Research for SMEs and Research for SME associations. The first targets mainly low to medium technology SMEs with little or no research capability, but also SMEs with technological capabilities and from traditional sectors which need to outsource research to complement their core technological research capability. The second targets SME associations which are normally best placed to know or identify the common technical problems of their members, to act on their behalf, and to promote the effective dissemination and take-up of results. |

Amendment 36

Annex I, Part 2, subtitle "Approach", paragraph 3

In addition to these specific actions, the participation of SMEs across the Framework Programme will be encouraged and facilitated. The research needs and potential of SMEs are duly taken into account in developing the content of the thematic areas of the "cooperation" programme, which will be implemented through projects of different sizes and scope depending on the field and topic. | In addition to these specific actions, the participation of SMEs across the Framework Programme will be encouraged and facilitated. In particular, administrative procedures for SMEs will be made simpler and clearer and costs will be reduced for SMEs benefiting under the Framework Programme. The research needs and potential of SMEs are duly taken into account in developing the content of the thematic areas of the "Cooperation" programme, which will be implemented through projects of different sizes and scope depending on the field and topic. |

| To achieve this objective, measures will be taken to facilitate the participation of SMEs individually or in clusters in projects relating to the priority topics of the "Cooperation" programme and in technological platforms. |

| When funding projects involving SMEs, efforts will be made to secure the maximum contribution possible from all Community institutions, including the EIB and EIF. |

Amendment 37

Annex I, Part 2, subtitle "Approach", paragraph 4

During the implementation of the Community RTD Framework Programme, complementarity and synergy will be ensured with the actions of the Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Programme to encourage and facilitate the participation of SMEs in the Community RTD Framework Programme. | During the implementation of the Framework Programme, complementarity and synergy will be ensured with the actions of the Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Programme so as to encourage and facilitate the participation of SMEs in the Framework Programme. Coordination will also be sought with relevant national research programmes, complementing the research activities outlined below. With this in view, consideration may also be given to possible joint implementation of technological development programmes aimed at SMEs under Eureka in order to encourage innovatory projects geared to market requirements. The following objectives will be pursued: encouraging SME participation in, and facilitating their access to the Framework Programme; and,ensuring that SMEs take full advantage of the funding opportunities available under the Framework Programme. |

| Simple, short, quick-procedure projects involving no complex financial principles or unnecessary reporting will be introduced. Common application and contractual principles will be applied in both the Framework Programme and the Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Programme, where possible. |

Amendment 38

Annex I, Part 2, subtitle "Approach", paragraph 4a (new)

| Mechanisms will also be introduced for cooperation with national and regional R&D support programmes for SMEs, with the aim of providing a more local service geared to their requirements and strengthening the critical mass and European dimension of the various national support schemes. |

Amendment 39

Annex I, Part 2, subtitle "Activities", paragraph 1, bullet 1

This scheme supports small groups of innovative SMEs to solve common or complementary technological problems. Projects, which are relatively short term, must be centred on the innovation needs of the SMEs which outsource research to RTD performers and must demonstrate a clear exploitation potential for the SMEs concerned. | This scheme supports the creation of small groups of innovative SMEs and craft undertakings to solve common or complementary technological problems and supports them in this work. Projects, which are relatively short term, must be centred on the innovation needs of the SMEs which outsource research to RTD performers and must demonstrate a clear exploitation potential for the SMEs concerned. |

Amendment 40

Annex I, Part 2, subtitle "Activities", paragraph 1, bullet 2a (new)

| —Research for small groups of SMEsTo support small groups of innovative SMEs in solving common or complementary technological problems, through the Framework Programme and/or intergovernmental funding schemes such as the Commission's, EIB's and European Bank for Reconstruction and Development's (EBRD) JEREMIE and JASPER initiatives. |

Amendment 41

Annex I, Part 2, subtitle "Activities", subheading "Common features of the schemes", indent 3a (new)

| —In order to stimulate R&D in research-performing SMEs with high growth potential on a sustainable basis, the Commission may also put forward a proposal for an Article 169 of the Treaty initiative in cooperation with Eureka (e.g. the Eurostars initiative). |

Amendment 42

Annex I, Part 3, subtitle "Approach", paragraph 3

"Regions of Knowledge" aims at supporting the definition and implementation of optimal policies and strategies for the development of R&D driven clusters. In particular it will improve the relevance and effectiveness of regional research agendas through mutual learning; promote and strengthen cooperation between clusters; and contribute to strengthening the sustainable development of existing R&D driven clusters as well as foster the creation of new ones. Support will be provided in particular for demand-driven and problem-oriented projects addressing specific technological areas or sectors. | "Regions of Knowledge" aims at supporting the definition and implementation of optimal policies and strategies for the development of R&D driven clusters. In particular it will improve the relevance and effectiveness of regional research agendas through mutual learning, promote and strengthen cooperation between clusters and contribute to strengthening the sustainable development of existing R&D driven clusters as well as foster the creation of new ones. Support will be provided in particular for demand-driven and problem-oriented projects addressing specific technological areas or sectors, particularly where these already demonstrate integration between regional authorities, development agencies, universities, research centres and industry. |

Amendment 43

Annex I, Part 3, subtitle "Approach", paragraph 4a (new)

| Attention must be paid specifically to cooperation between adjacent regions in different Member States. As with the Interreg III programmes in the EU, and on the basis of the territorial objective of the Structural Funds, the Regions of Knowledge programme must also incorporate solutions to cross-border hindrances and mechanisms to encourage crossborder regional cooperation in the research area, independently of whether the actions fall under a convergence or regional competitiveness objective. |

Amendment 44

Annex I, Part 3, subtitle "Activities", paragraph 1, bullet 2

—"Mentoring" of regions with a less developed research profile by highly developed ones based on R&D focused cluster building. Transnational regional consortia will mobilise and associate research actors in academia, industry and government to deliver "guidance" solutions with and for technologically less developed regions. | —"Mentoring" of regions with a less developed research profile by highly developed ones based on R&D focused cluster building or better integration of existing clusters into the global marketplace. Transnational regional consortia will mobilise and associate research actors in academia, industry and government to deliver "guidance" solutions with and for technologically less developed regions. Mentoring arrangements must include measures to achieve closer collaboration with the scientific communities of the new Member States. |

Amendment 45

Annex I, Part 3, subtitle "Activities", paragraph 1, bullet 3

—Initiatives to improve integration of research actors and institutions in regional economies, through their interactions at cluster level. These will include transnational activities to improve links between research stakeholders and the local business communities as well as relevant activities between clusters. | —Initiatives to improve integration of research actors and institutions in regional economies, through their interactions at cluster level. These will include transnational activities to improve links between research stakeholders and the local business communities as well as relevant activities between clusters. These activities could help to identify RDT complementarities, with a view to demonstrating the advantages of integration. |

Amendment 46

Annex I, Part 3, subtitle "Activities", paragraph 2

Support will also be provided to activities to promote systematic mutual information exchange as well as interactions between similar projects and where appropriate, with actions of other relevant Community programmes (e.g. analysis and synthesis workshops, roundtables, publications). | Support will also be provided to activities to promote systematic mutual information exchange as well as interactions between similar projects and, where appropriate, with actions under other relevant Community programmes (e.g. analysis and synthesis workshops, roundtables, publications) and the involvement of third countries where this is essential to the objectives of a project. |

Amendment 47

Annex I, Part 4, subtitle "Activities", paragraph 1, bullet 1

—Exchange know-how and experience through trans-national two-way secondments of research staff between the selected centres in the qualifying regions and one or more partner organisations in another EU State, with in-built obligatory return mechanisms for seconded staff originating from the selected centres in the qualifying regions; | —Exchange of know-how and experience through transnational, two-way secondments of research staff and managers between the selected centres in qualifying regions and one or more partner organisations in a Member State, associated country, neighbouring country or third country, with in-built obligatory return mechanisms for seconded staff from selected centres in qualifying regions; |

Amendment 48

Annex I, Part 4, subtitle "Activities", paragraph 1, bullet 4

—The organisation of workshops and conferences to facilitate knowledge transfer at national and international level involving both the selected centres' own research staff and invited researchers, from other countries in the frame of the development of the selected centres' international training capacity and reputation; participation of the research staff of the centres selected under the scheme at international conferences or short term training events, for knowledge sharing, network building and to expose them to a more international environment; | —The organisation of workshops and conferences to facilitate knowledge transfer at national, regional and international level involving both the selected centres' own research staff and invited researchers, from other countries in the frame of the development of the selected centres' international training capacity and reputation; participation of the research staff of the centres selected under the scheme at international conferences or short term training events, for knowledge sharing, network building and to expose them to a more international environment; |

Amendment 49

Annex I, Part 5, subtitle "Objective", paragraph 1a (new)

| Scientific knowledge and social development will influence each other, particularly in the area of environmental policy. In addition, to counter irrational and pseudo-scientific arguments put forward in public debates more quantitative elements will be used. |

Amendment 50

Annex I, Part 5, subtitle "Approach", paragraph 2

The development of European societies largely depends on their capacity to create, exploit and disseminate knowledge and, from there, to continuously innovate. Scientific research plays a major role in this regard, and should continue being one of the driving forces in promoting growth, welfare and sustainable development. | The development of European societies largely depends on their capacity to create, exploit and disseminate knowledge and, from there, to continuously innovate. New knowledge develops across society as a whole, but a key role in its creation is played by the "knowledge triangle" of research, education and innovation. Scientific research plays a major role in this regard, and should continue being one of the driving forces in promoting growth, welfare and sustainable development. |

Amendment 51

Annex I, Part 5, subtitle "Approach", paragraph 3

To achieve this aim, it is imperative that a social and cultural environment conducive to successful and exploitable research is created. This means that legitimate societal concerns and needs are taken on board, entailing an enhanced democratic debate with a more engaged and informed public, and better conditions for collective choices on scientific issues. It should also establish a climate favourable to scientific vocations, a new surge of research investments and the subsequent dissemination of knowledge upon which the Lisbon strategy is built. | To achieve this aim, it is imperative that a social and cultural environment conducive to successful and exploitable research is created. This means that legitimate societal concerns and needs are taken on board, entailing an enhanced democratic debate with a more engaged and informed public, and better conditions for collective choices on scientific issues. Civil society organisations will be allowed to outsource research needs. It should also establish a climate favourable to scientific vocations, a new surge of research investments and the subsequent dissemination of knowledge upon which the Lisbon Strategy is built. This activity will also seek to bring about the full integration of women into the scientific world. It is necessary for issues relating to "science and society" (such as the relationship between technology, employment and the workplace or major choices in the field of energy, the environment or health) to take on an ever greater European dimension. |

Amendment 52

Annex I, Part 5, subtitle "Approach", paragraph 7, indent 4

—bridge the gap between those who have a scientific education and those who do not, promote a taste for scientific culture in the direct neighbourhood of all citizens (calling upon cities, regions, foundations, science centres, etc.), | —bridge the gap between those who have a scientific education and those who do not, promote a taste for scientific culture in the direct neighbourhood of all citizens (calling upon cities, regions, foundations, science centres, museums, civil society organisations, etc.), |

Amendment 53

Annex I, Part 5, subtitle "Approach", paragraph 7, indent 4a (new)

| —encourage debate and discussion in the research community about the social aspects of research, |

Amendment 54

Annex I, Part 5, subtitle "Approach", paragraph 7, indent 4b (new)

| —explore ways of governing the European research and innovation system better, |

Amendment 55

Annex I, Part 5, subtitle "Approach", paragraph 7, indent 6

—provide an image of science and researchers which is meaningful to all, especially to young people, | —portray science and researchers as trustworth and provide an image of science and researchers which is meaningful to all, especially to young people, |

Amendment 56

Annex I, Part 5, subtitle "Approach", paragraph 7, indent 7

—help women to continue to progress in scientific careers and better use their scientific talents for the benefit of all, | —boost women's progress in scientific careers and the use of their scientific talents for the benefit of all, |

Amendment 57

Annex I, Part 5, subtitle "Approach", paragraph 7, indent 8

—renew science communication, favouring modern means to achieve higher impact, helping scientists to work closely with media professionals. | —renew science communication, favouring modern means to achieve higher impact, helping scientists to work closely with media professionals, particularly in the field of new ICT. |

Amendment 58

Annex I, Part 5, subtitle "Approach", paragraph 7, indent 8a (new)

| —collaborate with not-for-profit drug development initiatives. |

Amendment 59

Annex I, Part 5, subtitle "Approach", subheading "First action line:", bullet 1, indent 1

—improving the use, and monitoring the impact, of scientific advice and expertise for policy-making in Europe, and developing practical tools and schemes (e.g. electronic networks) | —assisting with continuing and refresher training for the professionals and officials who administer aid and research programmes in the Member States and their regions, working towards uniform methods and familiarity with best practice |

Amendment 60

Annex I, Part 5, subtitle "Approach", subheading "First action line:", bullet 1, indent 2

—promoting trust and self-regulation in the scientific community | —promoting democratic accountability, trust and self-regulation in the scientific community, redefining and disseminating the basic criteria for scientific safeguards |

Amendment 61

Annex I, Part 5, subtitle "Approach", subheading "First action line:", bullet 2, indent 2a (new)

| —Greater emphasis on discussion within the research community of the social aspects of research. |

Amendment 62

Annex I, Part 5, subtitle "Approach", subheading "First action line:", bullet 3

In order to address the relationship between science and society through sound policies, the knowledge accumulated in the history, sociology and philosophy of sciences needs to be expanded, consolidated and spread at European level. To this end, scholars from these disciplines should form networks to structure research and debates capable of revealing the real participation of science in building a European society and identity, stressing in particular: | In order to address the relationship between science and society through sound policies, the knowledge accumulated throughout the course of history, of our scientific and technological heritage, and of the sociology and philosophy of sciences needs to be expanded, consolidated and spread at European level. To this end, scholars from these disciplines should form networks to structure research and debates capable of revealing and contributing to a debate on the real participation of science in building a European society and identity, stressing in particular: |

— Relationships between science, democracy and law | — Relationships between science, democracy and law |

— Research on ethics in science and technology | — Research on ethics in science and technology |

— The reciprocal influence of science and culture | — The reciprocal influence of science and culture |

— The role and the image of scientists | — The role and the image of men and women in science |

| —Risk assessment and management procedures as tools for decision-making, in order to limit irrational societal reactions |

| —Ways of making science more comprehensible to society and fostering public debate. |

Amendment 63

Annex I, Part 5, subtitle "Approach", subheading "Second action line:", bullet 2, introductory part

Activities will be designed to attract more people into scientific careers, foster links across generations, and raise the level of scientific literacy generally. European exchanges and cooperation will concentrate on science teaching methods adapted to young audiences, the support to science teachers (concepts, materials), developing the linkages between schools and professional life. In addition, events with a broad European scope may be supported which bring together distinguished scientists — as "role models" — and aspiring young scientists. Underpinning research will be addressed, taking into account social contexts and cultural values. Three aspects have been retained: | Activities will be designed to attract more people into scientific careers, foster links across generations, raise the level of scientific literacy generally and above all analyse the factors which deter young people from opting for a career in the field of science and technology. European exchanges and cooperation will concentrate on science teaching methods adapted to young audiences, the support to science teachers (concepts, materials), developing the linkages between schools and professional life. In addition, events with a broad European scope may be supported which bring together distinguished scientists — as "role models" — and aspiring young scientists. Underpinning research will be addressed, taking into account social contexts and cultural values. Three aspects have been retained: |

Amendment 64

Annex I, Part 5, subtitle "Approach", subheading "Second action line:", bullet 2, indent 3a (new)

| —Stepping up the teaching of science subjects in the EU at every level of national curricula. |

Amendment 65

Annex I, Part 5, subtitle "Approach", subheading "Third action line:", indent 5

—Promotion of excellent trans-national research and science communication by the means of popular Prizes | —Promotion of excellent transnational research and science communication by means of popular prizes and the introduction of a Week for Scientific Culture |

Amendment 66

Annex I, Part 5, subtitle "Approach", subheading "Third action line:", indents 6a and 6b (new)

| —Improved communication of the results of research and research-related problems by the scientific community to both political decision-makers and the public, with the aim of making an informed contribution to the debate on science policy |

| —Encouraging researchers communicating with society at large to be open as regards underlying assumptions and values, uncertainties and possible economic interests in their research. |

Amendment 67

Annex I, Part 5, subtitle "Approach", subheading "Third action line a:" (new)

| Third action line a: Multilingualism Initiatives under the Framework Programme will seek to underpin R&D regarding information society technologies in the linguistic field and to promote science and technology in the area of multilingualism. |

Amendment 68

Annex I, Part 6, subtitle "Objective", paragraph 2a (new)

| An overall strategy for international cooperation encompassing all the international actions carried out under the various specific programmes within the Framework Programme will be prepared. |

Amendment 69

Annex I, Part 6, subtitle "Approach", paragraph 1, introductory part

In order to identify and establish the priority areas of research of mutual interest and mutual benefit with targeted third countries (International Cooperation Partner Countries) for the specific international cooperation actions of the Cooperation Specific Programme, ongoing policy dialogues and partnership networks will be enhanced with the different regions in these third countries to provide input to help implement these actions. Coherence of national activities on international scientific cooperation will be enhanced by supporting the coordination of national programmes (Member States, Candidate and associated countries) through multilateral coordination of national RTD policies and activities. Cooperation with third countries in the Framework Programme will be targeted in particular at the following groups of countries: | In order to identify and establish the priority areas of research of mutual interest and mutual benefit with targeted third countries (International Cooperation Partner Countries) for the specific international cooperation actions of the Cooperation Specific Programme, ongoing policy dialogues and partnership networks will be enhanced with the different regions in these third countries to provide input to help implement these actions, and scope will be afforded for coordination with the Member States' international activities so as to achieve synergy. Coherence of national activities on international scientific cooperation will be enhanced by supporting the coordination of national programmes (Member States, candidate and associated countries) through multilateral coordination of national RTD policies and activities. Cooperation with third countries in the Framework Programme will be targeted in particular at the following groups of countries: |

Amendment 70

Annex I, Part 6, subtitle "Approach", paragraph 2

The theme-oriented international cooperation actions are carried out under the Cooperation Specific Programme. The international actions in the area of human potential are carried out under the People Specific programme. The horizontal support activities of international cooperation are described in this programme. The overall coordination of the international cooperation actions under the different programmes will be ensured. | The theme-oriented international cooperation actions are carried out under the Cooperation Specific Programme. The international actions in the area of human potential are carried out under the People Specific programme. Activities of international cooperation and specific cooperation activities including measures to support the implementation of the European strategy for international cooperation in science are described in this programme. The overall coordination of the international cooperation actions under the different programmes will be ensured. |

Amendment 71

Annex III, paragraph 1

In accordance with Annex II, the Community will provide a grant (Coordination and support action) to the European Investment Bank (EIB). This grant will contribute to the Community's objective to foster private sector investment in research by increasing the capacity of the Bank to manage risk, thus allowing for (i) a larger volume of EIB lending for a certain level of risk, and (ii) the financing of riskier European RTD actions than would be possible without such Community support. | In accordance with Annex II, the Community will provide a grant (Coordination and support action) to the European Investment Bank (EIB), which will be a partner in the risk shared. This grant will contribute to the Community's objective of fostering private sector investment in RTD and demonstration by increasing the capacity of the EIB to manage risk, thus allowing for (i) a larger volume of EIB lending and guarantees for a certain level of risk, and (ii) the financing of riskier European RTD actions than would be possible without such Community support. |

Amendment 72

Annex III, paragraph 2

The EIB will lend funds raised from international financial markets in accordance with its standard rules, regulations and procedures. It will then use this grant, together with its own funds, as provisions and capital allocation within the bank to cover part of the risks associated with these loans to eligible large European RTD actions. | The EIB will lend funds raised from international financial markets in accordance with its standard rules, regulations and procedures. It will then use this grant, together with its own funds, as provisions and capital allocation within the bank to cover part of the risks associated with these loans to eligible European RTD actions. |

Amendment 73

Annex III, paragraph 5, bullet 2

—The eligibility of large European RTD actions. By default, the development of research infrastructures funded by the Community under this Specific Programme shall be automatically eligible. Other research infrastructures could also be considered. In accordance with the regulation adopted pursuant to Article 167 of the Treaty, the grant agreement will also establish procedural modalities and will guarantee to the Community the possibility to veto under certain circumstances the use of the grant for provisioning a loan proposed by the EIB. | —The eligibility of European RTD actions. By default, the development of research infrastructures funded by the Community under this Specific Programme shall be automatically eligible. Other research infrastructures could also be considered. Irrespective of their size, applicants (including SMEs) may benefit from this instrument to finance their activities. In accordance with the regulation adopted pursuant to Article 167 of the Treaty, the grant agreement will also establish procedural modalities and will guarantee to the Community the possibility of vetoing under certain circumstances the use of the grant for provisioning a loan proposed by the EIB. |

[1] Not yet published in OJ.

[2] OJ C 139, 14.6.2006, p. 1.

--------------------------------------------------