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))
Date: 2006-11-30
Institutions: Committee on Industry, Research and Energy, European Parliament
Subjects: EU programme, EU research policy, innovation, research and development, research programme, research staff, technological change, vocational training

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P6_TA(2006)0520

Specific Programme
2007-2013) *

‘Capacities’

(Seventh RTDD Framework Programme,

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 provi-
sions 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.

4.

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

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

Asks the Council to consult Parliament again if it intends to amend the Commission proposal sub-

5.
stantially;

6.

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

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BY PARLIAMENT

Amendment 1
Recital 4

(4) The Framework Programme should complement the activ-
ities carried out in the Member States as well as other Com-
munity 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,
industry, health,
training,
consumer protection,
and
environment.

and innovation,

competitiveness

employment,

transport

energy,

(1) Not yet published in OJ.
(2) OJ C 139, 14.6.2006, p. 1.

(4) The Framework Programme should complement the activ-
ities carried out in the Member States and by the Member
States through their participation in European intergovern-
mental 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, cul-
health,
ture,
consumer protection, employment, energy, transport and the
environment.

competitiveness

innovation,

industry,

and

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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.

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

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

Amendment 3
Recital 10

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, Eura-
tom) 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 accor-
dance with the principles of economy, efficiency and effective-
ness, as well as the principle of proportionality.

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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 pro-
grammes 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 bud-
getary authority whenever it intends to depart from the break-
down of expenditure stated in the remarks in and annex to the
general budget of the European Union.

Amendment 10
Article 6, paragraph 2

The Work Programme shall

2.
relevant
research activities carried out by the Member States, associated
countries and European and international organisations. It shall
be updated where appropriate.

take account of

take account of

The Work Programme shall

2.
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

The Commission shall regularly inform the Committee of
5.
the overall progress of the implementation of the Specific Pro-
gramme, and shall provide it with information about all RTD
actions funded under this programme.

The Commission shall regularly inform the Committee
5.
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.

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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 com-
pleted by the end of 2010.

Amendment 15
Annex I, Introduction, paragraph 1, indent 5

— Bringing science and society closer together for the harmo-
nious integration of science and technology in European
society; and

— Bringing science and society closer together for the harmo-
nious integration of science and technology in European
society; enabling existing EU, national or regional infor-
mation help desks to provide SMEs, industry and knowl-
edge institutions with full information on the Framework
Programme, the Competitiveness and Innovation Frame-
work Programme and the Structural Funds; and

Amendment 16
Annex I, Introduction, paragraph 1, indent 6

— Horizontal actions and measures in support of

interna-

tional cooperation.

— Horizontal actions and measures in support of

interna-
tional cooperation, including cross-border and interregio-
nal 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 Pro-
gramme.

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 (Arti-
cle 169 of the Treaty) as described in the Cooperation Specific
Programme. Actions will also be used to enhance the comple-
mentarity and synergy between the Framework Programme
and activities carried out in the framework of intergovern-
mental 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 infor-
mation 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

— 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, ana-

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investment, surveys of private R&D investment trends, ana-
lysis of
factors affecting R&D investment decisions and
practices of firms, analysis of economic impacts, and assess-
ment of policy implications.

factors affecting R&D investment decisions and
lysis of
practices of firms, analysis of economic impacts, and assess-
ment 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
the open
method of coordination (OMC) and (ii) bottom-up initiatives
involving where
undertaken by several countries and regions,
appropriate other stakeholders (including industry, European
organisations and civil society organisations).

the implementation of

(i)

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 implementa-
tion of the open method of coordination (OMC) and (ii) bot-
tom-up initiatives undertaken by several countries and regions,
involving where
(including
industry, European organisations and civil society organisations).

appropriate other

stakeholders

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 com-
bination with innovation-driven programmes and Struc-
tural Funds programmes;

— reducing administrative and physical hindrances to effec-
tive cross-border cooperation between regions in different
Member States; and

— the 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
fostering innovation.
its application and exploitation,
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 communi-
cation 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.

thus

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 dedi-
cated 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 sys-
tems 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.

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Amendment 22
Annex I, Part 1, subtitle ‘Approach’, paragraph 2

The proposed action will in particular contribute to the devel-
opment, exploitation and preservation of knowledge, through
its support to research infrastructures based both on a bottom-
up, 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 devel-
opment, exploitation and preservation of knowledge, through
its support to research infrastructures based on both a bottom-
up, excellence-driven approach and a targeted approach consis-
tent 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 infra-
structures.

Amendment 23
Annex I, Part 1, subtitle ‘Approach’, paragraph 3, introductory part

The term ‘Research infrastructures’ in the context of the Com-
munity 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, includ-
ing the associated human resources:

The term ‘Research infrastructures’ in the context of the Frame-
work 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

— as a priority, optimising the utilisation of existing research

and improving their performance;

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 inter-
est, 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
intended to open new
of Transnational Access. This

is

long-term
research infrastructures need huge,
World-class
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

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opportunities for research teams to obtain access to the best
research infrastructures, including research teams, from periph-
eral 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 provi-
sion 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.

opportunities for research teams, including those from periph-
to obtain access to the best
eral and outermost regions,
research infrastructures. This access may be made available to
external users, either in person (‘hands-on’) or by suitable elec-
tronic 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 oper-
ate, at fostering their joint development in terms of capa-
city 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 devel-
opment in terms of capacity and performance and at pro-
moting 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 infra-
structures in the long term, and speeding up their emer-
gence at EU level. They will be implemented in close coop-
eration 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
long-term strategic
European infrastructures,
needs of academic, public and industrial research stake-
holders and the society at large, such as for life sciences
and its applications, information and communication tech-
nologies, the development of industrial research including
metrology, support for sustainable development and in par-
ticular in the area of environment, and for social sciences
and humanities.

fulfilling

— ‘targeted calls’ when such focused actions will be clearly
beneficial to support potentially important research infra-
structures in the long term, and speeding up their emer-
gence at EU level. They will be implemented in close coop-
eration 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
long-term strategic
European infrastructures,
needs of academic, public and industrial research stake-
holders and the society at large, such as for life sciences
and its applications, in particular clinical research infra-
structues / networks for paediatric diseases, information
the development of
and communication technologies,
industrial research including metrology, support for sustain-
able development and in particular in the area of environ-
ment, and for social sciences and humanities.

fulfilling

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
instrumentation) to virtual commu-
(computing, connectivity,

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,

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nities. The reinforcement of a European approach and of related
European activities in this domain can make a significant con-
tribution to boosting European research potential and its exploi-
tation, consolidating e-Infrastructures as a cornerstone of the
European Research Area, a ‘forerunner’ of cross discipline inno-
vation and a driver in changing the way science is conducted. It
may also contribute to integrate research teams from peripheral
and outermost regions.

connectivity, instrumentation) to virtual communities. The rein-
forcement 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, con-
solidating 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 outer-
most 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-Infrastruc-
tures 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 e-
learning. 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 initia-
tives 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 Euro-
pean roadmap for new research infrastructures. The Commis-
sion will identify priority projects to which a possible EC sup-
port 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 pro-
gramme 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:

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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 com-
plementarity between national and Community instruments
(such as the Structural
the European Investment
funds or
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 com-
plementarity between national and Community instruments
(such as the Structural
the European Investment
funds or
bank), the construction plans would be implemented with the
involvement of the appropriate private financial institutions.
The Framework Programme financial support for the construc-
tion 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 indus-
trial 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

the project proposals will take due account of

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 car-
ried out in the entire field of science and technology. The evalu-
ation 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 sec-

Specific actions will be implemented to support SMEs or SME
associations in need of outsourcing research to ‘RTD perfor-
mers’ such as universities, research centres and research inten-
sive SMEs. These actions will be carried out across the entire
field of science and technology. The evaluation of project pro-
posals 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 out-
source research to complement their core technological research

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ond 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.

capability. The second targets SME associations which are nor-
mally best placed to know or identify the common technical
problems of their members, to act on their behalf, and to pro-
mote 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 facili-
tated. 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 facili-
tated. 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 dif-
ferent 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 pro-
jects relating to the priority topics of the ‘Cooperation’ pro-
gramme and in technological platforms.

When funding projects involving SMEs, efforts will be made
to secure the maximum contribution possible from all Com-
munity 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, considera-
tion 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.

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Simple, short, quick-procedure projects involving no complex
financial principles or unnecessary reporting will be intro-
duced. Common application and contractual principles will be
applied in both the Framework Programme and the Competi-
tiveness and Innovation Framework Programme, where poss-
ible.

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 Euro-
pean 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 innova-
tion needs of the SMEs which outsource research to RTD per-
formers and must demonstrate a clear exploitation potential for
the SMEs concerned.

This scheme supports the creation of small groups of innova-
tive SMEs and craft undertakings to solve common or comple-
mentary 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 SMEs

complementary

To support small groups of innovative SMEs in solving
common or
problems,
through the Framework Programme and/or intergovern-
mental funding schemes such as the Commission's, EIB's
and European Bank for Reconstruction and Develop-
ment's (EBRD) JEREMIE and JASPER initiatives.

technological

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 Arti-
cle 169 of the Treaty initiative in cooperation with Eureka
(e.g. the Eurostars initiative).

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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 devel-
opment 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 devel-
opment 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 devel-
opment 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 develop-
ment of existing R&D driven clusters as well as foster the crea-
tion of new ones. Support will be provided in particular for
demand-driven and problem-oriented projects addressing speci-
fic technological areas or sectors, particularly where these
already demonstrate integration between regional authorities,
development agencies, universities, research centres and indus-
try.

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 cross-
border 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 gov-
ernment to deliver ‘guidance’ solutions with and for tech-
nologically 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 arrange-
ments must include measures to achieve closer collabora-
tion 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 interac-
tions at cluster level. These will include transnational activ-
ities 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 interac-
tions at cluster level. These will include transnational activ-
ities 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.

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Amendment 46
Annex I, Part 3, subtitle ‘Activities’, paragraph 2

Support will also be provided to activities to promote systema-
tic 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 systema-
tic 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 transna-
tional, two-way secondments of research staff and man-
agers 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 invol-
ving both the selected centres' own research staff and
invited researchers, from other countries in the frame of
the development of the selected centres' international train-
ing capacity and reputation; participation of the research
staff of the centres selected under the scheme at interna-
tional conferences or short term training events, for knowl-
edge 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
the
training capacity and reputation; participation of
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 argu-
ments put forward in public debates more quantitative ele-
ments 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 driv-
ing forces in promoting growth, welfare and sustainable devel-
opment.

The development of European societies largely depends on their
capacity to create, exploit and disseminate knowledge and, from
to continuously innovate. New knowledge develops
there,
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 promot-
ing growth, welfare and sustainable development.

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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 subse-
quent dissemination of knowledge upon which the Lisbon Strat-
egy 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 rela-
tionship 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 educa-
tion 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 educa-
tion 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 commun-

ity 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 mean-

ingful 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,

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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 scienti-
fic advice and expertise for policy-making in Europe, and
developing practical tools and schemes (e.g. electronic net-
works)

— 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 familiar-
ity 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 com-

munity

— promoting democratic accountability, trust and self-regula-
tion in the scientific community, redefining and dissemi-
nating 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 com-

munity of the social aspects of research.

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Amendment 62
Annex I, Part 5, subtitle ‘Approach’, subheading ‘First action line:’, bullet 3

sociology and philosophy of

In order to address the relationship between science and society
through sound policies, the knowledge accumulated in the his-
tory,
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 par-
ticipation of science in building a European society and identity,
stressing in particular:

sciences needs

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 heri-
tage, 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 contri-
buting to a debate on the real participation of science in build-
ing 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 reac-
tions

— 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 scienti-
fic 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.

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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 intro-
duction 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 encompass-
ing 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 coun-
tries (International Cooperation Partner Countries) for the spe-
cific international cooperation actions of the Cooperation Spe-
cific Programme, ongoing policy dialogues and partnership
networks will be enhanced with the different regions in these
third countries to provide input
these
actions. Coherence of national activities on international scien-
tific cooperation will be enhanced by supporting the coordination

to help implement

In order to identify and establish the priority areas of research
of mutual interest and mutual benefit with targeted third coun-
tries (International Cooperation Partner Countries) for the spe-
cific international cooperation actions of the Cooperation Spe-
cific Programme, ongoing policy dialogues and partnership
networks will be enhanced with the different regions in these
these
third countries to provide input

to help implement

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of national programmes (Member States, Candidate and asso-
ciated 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:

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BY PARLIAMENT

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 scien-
tific cooperation will be enhanced by supporting the coordination
of national programmes (Member States, candidate and asso-
ciated 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 car-
ried out under the Cooperation Specific Programme. The inter-
national 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 pro-
gramme. The overall coordination of the international coopera-
tion actions under the different programmes will be ensured.

The theme-oriented international cooperation actions are car-
ried out under the Cooperation Specific Programme. The inter-
national actions in the area of human potential are carried out
under the People Specific programme. Activities of
interna-
tional 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 Invest-
ment 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 allow-
ing 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 Invest-
ment Bank (EIB), which will be a partner in the risk shared.
This grant will contribute to the Community's objective of foster-
ing 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 cer-
tain level of risk, and (ii) the financing of riskier European RTD
actions
such Community
support.

than would be possible without

Amendment 72

Annex III, paragraph 2

The EIB will lend funds raised from international financial mar-
kets in accordance with its standard rules, regulations and pro-
cedures. 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 mar-
kets in accordance with its standard rules, regulations and pro-
cedures. 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.

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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 auto-
matically 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 cir-
cumstances 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 auto-
matically eligible. Other research infrastructures could also
be considered. Irrespective of their size, applicants (includ-
ing 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.

P6_TA(2006)0521

Specific Programme ‘Cooperation’
2007-2013) *

(Seventh RTDD Framework Programme,

European Parliament legislative resolution on the proposal for a Council decision on the Specific
Programme ‘Cooperation’ implementing the Seventh Framework Programme (2007-2013) of the
technological development and demonstration activities
European Community for research,

(COM(2005)0440 — C6-0381/2005 — 2005/0185 (CNS))

(Consultation procedure)

The European Parliament,

— having regard to the Commission proposal to the Council (COM(2005)0440) (1) and the amended

proposal (COM(2005)0440/2) (1),

— having regard to Article 166 of the EC Treaty, pursuant to which the Council consulted Parliament

(C6-0381/2005),

— 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, the Committee on Transport and Tourism, the Committee on Agriculture and
Rural Development and the Committee on Culture and Education (A6-0379/2006),

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 provi-
sions 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);

(1) Not yet published in OJ.
(2) OJ C 139, 14.6.2006, p. 1.