Source: EURLEX
Language: en
Format: md

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# 91996E2539

**WRITTEN QUESTION No. 2539/96 by Amedeo AMADEO to the Commission. Research and development framework programme** 
  
*Official Journal C 083 , 14/03/1997 P. 0023*

  

WRITTEN QUESTION E-2539/96 by Amedeo Amadeo (NI) to the Commission (8 October 1996)

Subject: Research and development framework programme

With the exception of the environmental sector, the priorities for the fourth programme correspond to the areas covered by the seven 'research-industry' task forces set up inside the Commission with a view to improving coordination of RTD policy and activities at Community and national levels.

The stated aims are to: define research priorities more clearly by means of closer cooperation with industry, SMEs and the end users of research findings and take greater account of the needs of businesses; ensure that the resources available under the fourth programme are properly coordinated and channelled into priority areas; match supply to demand more effectively in the field of research and development; seek to establish an environment geared towards innovation; improve access to additional funding; and promote cooperation between firms.

Although this approach is commendable, would the Commission not agree that it should set up an additional task force covering innovation, with a view to establishing the necessary synergies between research and industrial policies as part of the drive to boost industrial competitiveness and employment and promote economic and social cohesion?

Answer given by Mrs Cresson on behalf of the Commission (19 November 1996)

The task forces are essentially coordination instruments, addressing tangible objectives the realisation of which depends upon research. By fostering contact between research and other policies in relation to specific themes, they will help to improve the environment for innovation. The question whether they are an appropriate instrument to deal with interactions between research and industrial policies in favour of innovation across the board is considered in the Innovation action plan. This takes account of comments and suggestions received in response to the green paper on innovation ((COM(95) 688 final. )). The adoption of the plan of action by the Commission and subsequent transmission to the Parliament and Council are expected shortly.

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