CELEX: 51978PC0213
Language: en
Date: 1978-05-26
Title: Amended Proposal for a COUNCIL DECISION adopting a second three-year plan of action in the field of information and documentation on science and technology (submitted to the Council by the Commission pursuant to the second paragraph of Article 149 of the EEC Treaty)

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DOCUMENTS "COM"
COM (78) 213
Vol. 1978/0072
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 ---pagebreak--- COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES
                                           COM(78)213 final
                                           Brussels , 26 May 1978
                                 Amended
                                                            <*■"  -A ,;:
                             Proposai for a
                            COUNCIL DECISION
             adopting a second three-year plan of action
             in the field of information and documentation
                        on science and technology
             ( submitted to the Council by the Commission
               pursuant to the second paragraph of Article 149
               of the EEC Treaty )       ,
C0MC78 ) 213 final
 ---pagebreak---              Communication from the Commission "to the Council
On 13 July 1977 "the Commission forwarded, to the Council a proposal for a
Council decision adopting a second three-year plan of action in the field
of scientific and technical information and document at i on .
At that time | the opinion of the Scientific and Technical Research Commit­
tee ( CREST), whose contribution in the field of scientific and technical
information and documentation was provided for in the Council resolutions
of 24 June 1971 and 14 January 1974 » had not yet been officially formul­
ated; as is now known from CREST 's opinion No . R/2921/77 (RECH 40) of
25 November 1977 » its recommendation is that the Committee for Information
and Documentation on Science and Technology (CIDST) should function on the
lines of an advisory committee on programme management (ACPM); this new
definition appears to have two advantages :
- first it eliminates certain ambiguities and provides a better definition
   of CIDST* s role |
– secondly, it brings the procedure for the field of scientific and tech­
   nical information and documentation into line with those already in
   operation for various other fields of research and development and
   applicable to several programmes already decided upon by the Council *
The proposal for a Council decision has therefore been amended in the light
of the above *
 ---pagebreak--- At its plenary session from 13 to 17 March 1978 , the European Parliament
expressed a favourable opinion on the second three-year plan of action ,
subject to the addition of a third indent to paragraph 2 of annex 1 to
the Commission 's proposal , worded as follows :
 1  to improve access to information for small and medium-sized undertak­
    ings so that the development of a common market in scientific and tech­
    nical information on the one hand produces more equal conditions of
    competition , while on the other it is in the common interest for all
    scientific and technical findings to be available for development and
    exploitation by the greatest possible number of undertakings . 1
This amendment consolidates the arrangements which the Commission intends
to make for the benefit of small and medium-sized undertakings , and , for
this reason , it has been incorporated into the proposal for a Council
decision .
A certain number of third countries in Europe have unofficially informed
the Commission of their intention to join EURONET (European telecommuni­
cations network for data transmission ) ; in particular , the Swiss Confe­
deration has recently begun exploratory talks with the consortium of PTT
administrations commissioned to set up EURONET on behalf of the Community ,
to gain a better appreciation of the technical conditions pertaining to
possible Swiss membership of the network ; it is known that in principle
the consortium is largely favourable to the membership of countries whose
administrations are members of the European Conference of Postal and
Telecommunications Administrations ( CEPT). The participation of Switzer­
land , or other third country members of CEPT , would clearly be to the
advantage of the Community , first since it would allow improved use of
network capacity as a result of the increased number of users and secondly
because of further data that these countries could contribute from their
own data bases , and these data would then be accessible to Community
users .
The new article 4 of the proposal for a Council decision is intended to
 enable such agreements to be negotiated and concluded .
 ---pagebreak---                               - 3 -
The Commission , therefore , in accordance with article 149(2 ) of the EEC
Treaty , modifies its above mentioned proposal of 13«7»77 *  The amended
text is attached-
Are also attached the opinions of :
         the Committee for Information and Documentation on Science and
         Technology ( CIDST ) of 7 April 1977 and
         the Scientific and Teohnical Researoh Committee ( CREST ) of
         7/8 November 1977 *
 ---pagebreak---                         Amended
                     Proposai for a
                     COUNCIL DECISION
    adopting a second three-year plan of action in the field of
    information and documentation on science and technology
               THE COUNCIL OP THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES,
       Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Economic
Community, and in particular Article 233 thereof,
       Having regard to the proposal from the Commission,
       Having regard to the opinion of the European Parliament ,
       Having regard to the opinion of the Economic and Social Committee ,
       Whereas a resolution was adopted by the Council and the representa­
tives of the Member States meeting- within the Council on 24 June 1971 for
the coordination of the activities of Member States in the field of infor­
mation and documentation on science and technology (IDST) ;
       Wher«as under Article 2 of the Treaty, the Community has as
one of its tasks to promote throughout the Community a harmonious develop­
ment of economic activities and a continuous and balanced expansion ;
       Whereas the proliferation of information systems and their rapid
but disparate progress as a result of the competition among both public
and private ventures make the establishment of the European network proposed
in the Resolution of 24 June 1971 a matter of urgency;
       Whereas the results achieved by the first three-year plan of action in
the field of information and documentation on science and technology, adopted
by the Council on 18 March 1975» justify the setting up of this network
 which would effectively contribute to the achievement of the above mentioned
 objectives of the Treaty ;
 ---pagebreak---          Whereas the Treaty has not provided the necessary powers
        Whereas the Council adopted a Resolution on 14 January 1974
 concerning an initial outline action programme for the European Communities
 in the field of science and technology;
        Whereas the CIDST and the CREST have given their opinion on
the Commission proposal ,
                         HAS DECIDED AS FOLLOWS :
                               Article 1
        A second Community plan of action in the field of information
 and documentation on science and technology , as set out in Annex 1 ,
is hereby adopted for a period of three years from 1 January 1978 .
Annex 1 forms an integral part of this Decision .
                              Article 2
        The Commission shall implement the plan of action } assisted by
the Committee for Information and Documentation on Science and Tech­
nology (CIDST) | the functions and method of operation of the CIDST
are set out in Annex 2 .    This Committee and the Scientific and Tech­
nical Research Committee ( CREST) shall be kept regularly informed of
the progress of the work . The Commission shall also submit each
year to the Council and the European Parliament a full report on the
subject which will be included in the General Report .
                              Article 3
       The Commission shall decide on the detailed activities to be carried
out under the plan of action after consultation with CIDST and CREST .
On this basis , the Commission sha 1 1 determine the estimates of expen­
diture and payments for the 1979 and 1980 financial years , in accordance with
the budgetary procedure .
 ---pagebreak---                               Article 4
        In accordance with Article 228 of the Treaty, the Community
may conclude agreements with third countries participating in the
European Conference of Postal and Telecommunications Administra­
tions ( CEPT ) with a view to extending the framework of the action
plan covered by this Decision to the activities carried out in
those countries .
       The Commission shall he authorized to negotiate the agreements
referred to in paragraph 1 *
Done at Brussels ,
                                         For the Council ,
 ---pagebreak---                                 Annex 1
          SECOND 3-YEAR COMMUNITY PLAN OP ACTION IN THE FIELD
      OP SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTATION
           The Plan 's major objectives are the following :
1. To turn EURONET into a public operational on-line information network
       Bringing into fruition the Community network which will enable users
   to gain direct access via their own terminals to information of all kinds
   in data bases mounted on a number of computers at centres of expertise
   widely distributed in Member countries , is to be a top priority action
   in the period 1978-1980 .     Among the essential activities to be under­
   taken are :
       -    starting operation of the telecommunications facilities
       -    connection of host computers and user terminals
       - fulfilment of operational responsibilities , including financial
            and technical management
       - making arrangements for connections to other networks
       - developing cooperation with the PTT administrations .
       Priority will be given to the expansion and upgrading of the network
   in order to maintain ease and equality of access by users in all Member
   States .
2. To develop a common market for scientific and technical information
        This section of the Action Plan aims at merging the many different
   interests involved , in order to stimulate the development of a true
   and healthy Community information market with the over-riding objective
   of providing concrete benefits for the user . Major efforts will be
   made :
       - to ensure implementation of formally defined cooperation with
            mutually agreed rights and commitments between existing inform­
            ation services in the Community , especially xvith a view to rat-
            ionalisation, improved quality and reduction of overall cost ,
            within a framework of open competition ; _
 ---pagebreak--- – to assist the user to make effective use of eaoh type and source of In­
  formation , in order to contribute to the social and economio goals of the
  Community ;
– to improve access to information for small and medium–sized undertakings
  so that the development of a common market in scientific and technical in­
  formation on the one hand produces more equal conditions of competition ,
  while on the other it is in the common interest for all scientific and
  technical findings to be available for development and exploitation by the
  greatest possible number of undertakings .
      Activities to be undertaken will Include investigation of user needs ,
user support , training of users and specialists , promotion of the network,
development of information systems and services , including sectoral activi­
ties , and contributing to international information services .
To promote technology and methodology for improving information services ,
with special emphasis on those of EURONET
      In accordance with the Council Resolution of 24 June 1971 which called
for coordination among the Member States with regard to technological progress
in the science and processing of documentation , this part of the Action Plan
aims primarily at building on certain important work already underway and at
ensuring that user interests are safeguarded in the context of emerging tech­
nological developments insofar as they affect on-line access to scientific
and technical information . Particular areas for action include cooperation
with the PTT administrations in developing standards and new applications for
EURONET , assistance to the user with regard to using the different systems
available via the network , support for information exchange standards , pilot
projects in applying advanced information technology , the promotion of in­
formation exchange on information technology , IDST aspects of multilingual
systems .
      The action to be taken to achieve the above objeotives will be carried
out mainly under contract with competent organisations in the Member States
and may be extended to organisations to third countries under appropriate
conditions .
 ---pagebreak---                                                               Annex 2 •
                  DUTIES AND METHOD OF OPERATION OF THE
        SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTATION
                            COKKITTEE ( CIDST )
       Without prejudice to the responsibility assumed by the
Commission in carrying out the second three-year plan of action in
the field of information and documentation in science and technology
the CIDST shall contribute by its opinions to the optimum execution
of the plan .
       Under the second plan of action , the Commission shall consult
the CIDST on all measures which it intends to take for :
( a ) turning EURONET into a public operational on-line information
      network ,
( b ) the development of a common market in scientific and technological
      information ,
( c ) the promotion of technology and methodology in order to improve
      information services , in particular those of EURONET .
       The Commission shall also seek the opinion of the CIDST on :
( a ) preparing for future work in this field ,
( b ) co-ordinating the second plan of action with related programmes ,
      and with the multilingual programme in particular ,
( c ) conducting negotiations with non-Community institutions , such as
      institutions in third countries and the responsible tele­
      communications bodies under contract to set UT> EURONET .
 ---pagebreak---         The CIDST should also be asked to give an opinion on :
 ( a) the 'working -.out of policies in detail , with priorities ;
 ( b ) the determination of financial needs and allocation of approved
       funds ;
 ( c ) the determination of the aims of , and budgets for projects ;
 ( d ) the specification of work to be done and the determination of
       criteria for the selection of contractors ,
( e ) the choice of contractors and the supervision of the projects .
        The CIDST shall give opinions which are prepared by the
Secretariat and submitted for the approval of the Committee . Any
member of the Committee nay request that his point of view be set
forth in these opinions . These opinions shall be forwarded to the
Commission and a copy sent to the Council .
        The CIDST shall lay down , in agreement with the        Commission ,
the procedure for examining the measures referred to            under 2 , 3 and
4 . This procedure should not interrupt the carrying            out of the plan
of action , particularly in the case of emergencies .           In order to
provide for flexible management , certain tasks shall           be delegated to
working parties .
        The Commission shall periodically submit a report to the CIDST
on the measures taken and the results obtained .
        The CIDST shall consist of two representatives from each Member
State , appointed for three years . The Member States may also appoint
two alternates .
        The CIDST shall adopt its own rules of procedure .
                                                                         • • •/• • •
 ---pagebreak---      The Commission shall provide the Secretariat of the CIDST .
     The provisions of this Annex shall not modify the other tasks
assigned to the CIDST in the Resolution of 24 June 1971 » nor its
advisory relationship to CREST .
 ---pagebreak---                                                                         Annex 3
              Plan of Action 197° – 80 t Detailed Proposals
1. Motivation
   A key factor for the economic success of the European Community
   must be improved facility of transfer of information on scientific ,
   technical , economic and social matters available in the Member
   States .   Viewed together , the mass of information already existing
   or being created represents an enormously powerful resource for
   European industry , commerce and government , and for the citizen .
   The task of optimising the distribution and exploitation of this
   resource , covering the whole range from wholesaling to retailing
   and personalisation of information , can be compared in scale ,
   importance and complexity with that for energy or raw materials .
   Indeed , there are strong grounds for believing that the information
   field may be one of Europe 's main lines of resource development in
   the coming years .   Poor in raw materials and facing ever-increasing
   low-cost manufacturing competition from the developing countries ,
   the Community has to look more and more to its own resources .      The
   wealth of intellectual capability , typified by scientific research ,
   gives the Community a rich source of 'raw material 1 for information
   processing.    Scientific , technical , economic and social information
   is needed to prime progress within the Community itself , but at the
   same time gives a significant opportunity for achieving a major
   position in the world as a whole with regard to the Community 's
   external commerce of this resource .
   In accordance with the general goal of the Community to promote
   harmonious development of economic activities , the first essential
   step towards the exploitation of this potential Community strength
   is therefore the creation of a true common market of information
   within the Community itself .    The aims of this common information
   market are to make available all the different information sources
   to all potential users ( engineers , economists , administrators ,
 ---pagebreak---                                     -  2  -
   agriculturalists , doctors , research workers , etc .) throughout the
   Community voider favourable and non-discriminatory conditions of
   access *   Front a strong, rational Community market can he huilt
   the extensions to the world at large .
2. Goals and objectives defined "by the Council
   The above considerations were the key issues underlying the
   Council of Ministers 1 Resolution of 24 June 1971 which addressed
   itself to coordinating the action of the Member States in the
   field of scientific and technical information and documentation .
   The Resolution defined the need for specific action in certain
   areas , including :
     -  the establishment of a European documentation and information
        network for all persons who need such information , using the
        most modem methods and under the most favourable conditions
        regarding speed and expense ;
     -  the drawing up of rules and procedures aimed at ensuring the
        cohesiveness of such a network ;
     -  the encouragement of the training of specialists and the
        education of users ;
     - the encouragement of technological progress in the science
        and processing of documentation .
   The aims and principles of the 1971 Resolution were made concrete
   by the elaboration of a Community "First 3-year plan of action in
   the field of information and documentation in science and technology",
   which was approved by the Council of Ministers on 18 March 1975 *
   This Action Plan , which runs until December 1977 1 is based on three
   broad strategic elements :
         •  Creation and development of sectoral information systems
         •  Creation of the network
         . Development and promotion of the tools and infrastructure"
            necessary for progress in infonnation technology.
 ---pagebreak---                                      -   3  -
   The initiatives undertaken within these three fields of activity
   have already produced results in a number of areas .
3» Achievements of the 1st Action Plan . 1975 - 77
   The following summary presents an overview of major results achieved
   during the first two years of the Action Plant
        •   Policy guidelines have "been worked out in cooperation with
            the > CIDST , relating to the provision and use of information
            services to be made available via the Community network now
           being implemented.      These guidelines specifically recognise
            the different interests of the many parties involved (users ,
            PTTs f host computer operators , data base suppliers , the
            Commission , equipment suppliers , etc .) and have the aim
            of presenting a balanced set of principles within which a
            common market of information can develop .     The principles
            deal with such topics as user rights , voluntary standard­
            isation , free competition and the rights and the respons­
            ibilities of service suppliers .    The guidelines are
            expected to have an important influence in promoting
            cooperation among the Member States in the field of
            scientific and technical information .
        •   Several important data bases are being created through
            cooperative effort at Community level .     Notably, the
            critical fields of environment , energy and agriculture now
            have the benefit of comprehensive files on such topics as
            environmental and agricultural research projects , and the
            economics of energy.     Furthermore , cooperation among
            existing national services has been encouraged and among
            the initiatives now underway in which the Community has
            played a leading role are joint efforts in the fields of
            drug banks and physics .
 ---pagebreak---                              - 4   -
 • The original contract ( of 15 Decanter 1975 ) with the
    Community PTTs to provide a telecommunications network
    for EURONET must rack as a milestone in European
    telecommunications .   Firstly, the contract        at
    overcoming a critical European problem in the provision
    of scientific and technical information services , lay
    establishing international facilities specifically for
    data transmission *   Secondly, the contract for the
    first time brings together all the nine PTTs of the
   Member States in implementing a common solution, vising
   a common technology.     Thirdly, the contract makes specific
   provision for the EURONET teleoomnunications network to
   provide the basis of a general purpose PTT-operated
   Community data transmission network.      Fourthly, •important
   additional benefits are emerging for the industrial
   market with regard to the standardisation of computer/
   teleoamnmications equipment and procedures .      Notably,
   the EURONET project has played a key role in the
   development of the X25 interface and is the major
   influence in bringing about a standard terminal protocol ,
   ESP ( 32 ).
•  The Action Plan for the first time systematically appraised
   and proposed practical measures for alleviating the special
   problem of the Community arising from the multiplicity of
   languages .   As a result of the work undertaken within the
   first Action Plan , a specific , separate programme of actions
   has been prepared to develop and test multilingual tools ,
   such as the compilation of multilingual vocabularies in
   selected subject fields , the creation of terminology data
   banks and the development of automated translation systems .
•  First , yet important , steps have been taken to provide
   improved support for the user of scientific and technical
   information .   Enphasis on this general area of user needs
 ---pagebreak---                            -  5  -
  corresponds particularly to the views of the Union des
  Industries de la Communaut6 EuropSenne ( UNICE ), which in
  welcoming EURONET in a public statement , gave many help­
  ful recommendations in the interests of the user .      Actions
  so far undertaken in this area have included a feasibility
  study for a common command language for the on-line use of
  data bases .    The results of the study have indicated that
  such a language is feasible and that it would bring benefits
  to a wide range of users .    A second example of the measures
  initiated to help users is the collaboration of the Commission
  with the European Association of Scientific Information
  Dissemination Centres , which has initiated a European project
  ( EUSIREF ) for the purpose of advising users on the availability
  of information services .
• The level of interest in a Community approach to scientific
  and technical information services is well illustrated by
  the fact that by the end of 1976 some 27 host computers
  offering over 100 data bases had been proposed by the
  Member States for connection to EURONET .     These numbers
  are far higher than those foreseen when the Action Plan was
  originally formulated .    Major efforts to build on this
  interest by developing specific means of cooperation are
  already underway .    For example , the technical problems of
  connecting the computers to the network are being studied
  jointly wherever possible with manufacturers , PTTs , the
  Commission and host operators ( primarily depending on the
  computer models concerned ).     A working group composed of
  members of the Commission , CIDST and the International
  Council of Scientific Unions Abstracting Board ( representing
  many major data base suppliers ) has already prepared draft
  guidelines for data base supply , thus promoting voluntary
  harmonisation and rationalisation .
 ---pagebreak---                                     -   6  -
   The above points are intended to indicate the substantial
   effects which have already been made noticeable by the first
   Action Plan .    However , on a more general level the major impact
   of the Plan has been its effect in bringing about a unity of
   purpose and focus for policy making in the Community in the
   field of scientific and technical information .      The first
   Action Plan therefore provides a basis for further action in
   the field of scientific and technical information in the
   Community *
4* Guidelines for proposed action
   SChe entry into service of EURONET is not a goal in itself, but
   rather a point of departure for a more global , long-term effort
   to provide the cooperation and sharing of resources spelled out
   by the Council of Ministers in their 1971 Resolution , including
   not only computerised but also non-computerised information .
   Hence the aims of the second Action Plan are :
      •  to turn EURONET into a public operational on-line information
         network , thereby
           -   overcoming national barriers to information flow,
               notably by development of the data network , and
           -   improving accessibility to existing services , for
               example by promoting referral services ;
           -   developing on this basis a public network at the
               earliest possible date ;
      .  to develop a common market for scientific and technical
         information , thereby
           -   promoting formally defined cooperation with mutually
               agreed rights and commitments between existing inform­
               ation services in the Community , especially with a view
               to rationalisation , improved quality and reduction of
               overall cost , within a framework of open competition ;
 ---pagebreak---                                     -   7  -
        -   assisting the user to make effective use of each type
            and source of information , with the aim of achieving test
            possible use of knowledge resources in order to contribute
            to the social and economic goals of the Community ;
   .   to promote technology and methodology for improving information
       services , with special emphasis on those of EURONET . thereby
         - ensuring that advantage is taken of technological develop­
            ments in the field of information handling, for example
            by the promotion of emerging standards and by selective
            application of pilot studies where Community-wide benefits
            are likely to accrue ;
         - ensuring that IDST aspects are catered for in the multi­
            lingual field .
The main areas for action within this strategic framework are presented
in outline in Figure 1 and detailed descriptions are to be found in
section 5 «    A separate programme has been prepared to deal with the
broader issues connected with last-named item above ( language barriers ),
but the CIDST has expressed the wish to be associated with IDST aspects
of policies and applications in the multilingual field and . the stun of
300,000 u.a . has been proposed for this purpose under the Plan of Action .
The broad budgetary strategy is for expenditure to achieve a stable
amount of around 3 MAU per annum ( 1976 prices ) for the three years of
the second Action Plan .    When the network commences operational
running, the revenue accruing from use of the network is unlikely to
cover running costs and hence an operational deficit is foreseen ,
declining gradually in the course of time .     The development of the
Community 's information market , on the other hand, is expected to
require a relatively constant level of financial support during the
period of the second Action Plan .     The promotion of technology and
methodologies for improving information services , with special
emphasis on those of EURONET, requires considerably more than the 17%
of the budget allocated in the proposed Action Plan .     Because of the
Commission 's desire to keep the expenditure to 9 MA.U for the three–
years , the sums allocated under Chapter 3 are manifestly insufficient .
 ---pagebreak---                                    -   8  -
 It is clear that during the second Action Plan the major part of the
 funds must go to "bringing the ongoing network project to fruition ,
"but it is recognised that this does starve longer-term activities ,
particularly those in Chapter 3 , in the meantime .   At a detailed
project allocation level , heavy emphasis will he placed on the
relationship of "benefits at Community level to the expenditure
involved .   In this regard, close consultation with CIDST and its
Working Groups will "be the key mechanism for project selection .
The detailed plans of action which follow remain flexible .    They
reflect the existing discussions and consensus of opinion in the
CIDST, "but are subject to further discussion and, in every case ,
to further development or modification in the course of negotiations
 with our partners who must carry out the bulk of the work , and in
particular with the scientific and technical information centres of
 the Member States .
 ---pagebreak---                                     Figure 1
                       Main Programme Areas under the
               Second Community Aotioh Plan in the Field of
            Scientific and Technical Information. 1978 - 80
                    i
                           .   i :
Chapter 1 t Turning EURONET into a publid Operational on-line information
            network                  ' . • ?         •
1.1  Starting operation of the telecommunications network
                             i *             ' 1      ■
1*2 Connection of host dofeputers and teriliinals
1*3 Operational responsibilities
                                              *
1.4 Connections to other information networks
1*5 Cooperation with the FHfe on third party traffio
                                                i *
Chapter 2 t Developing & common market fofr scientific and technical
            Information
2*1 Investigation of user needs and monitoring use
2.2 User referral , guidance and support
                                        ' *•            * 1   , j ' '
2*3  Training user* and specialists A
2*4 Promotional activities
                                             i
2*5  Development of information systems and services , including
     sectoral activities
                             ,                      i       -
                             Î :   *                                    '
2.6 Contributing to international information Services
2*7 Commission 's host computer fofr StJ&QHifl'aad related information
     systems ( p.m .)                                                 *
 ---pagebreak---                                   -  10
Chapter 3 t Promotion of technology and methodology for improving
            information services * with special emphasis on those
            of EUR0NET
3.1  Standardisation of technical interfaces for EURONET host
     computers and terminals              ■     >   ■
3*2 Developing new IDST uses of EURONET
3.3 Common command language
3.4  Standards for information exchange           .
3.5 Pilot programmes in applying 'advanced- iitformat ion technology
3*6 Information exchange on information technology
3.7 Multilingual tools for IDgT
 ---pagebreak--- Detailed Activities
Chapter 1 : Turning EURONET into a public operational on-line
information network
The development of the Community 's first public international
on-line information network has been a major feature of the
first Action Plan .    Dae to enter into service by the end of
1978 , i"t represents a key step in overcoming the problems of
borders within the Community and will allow users to gain
access to information sources wherever they are located .      The
network will assist progress towards the general goal of the
Community to achieve harmonious development of economic activities
and furthermore will play an important role in enabling the
rapidly growing pressure of competition from outside the Community
to be met .    Bringing the Community network to fruition is there­
fore seen as a top priority action in the period 1978 - 80 .
1.1   Starting operation of the telecommunications network
      Under the terms of the contract of 15 December 1975 »
      concluded between the PTT administrations of the Member
      States and the Commission , the PTTs are implementing and
      will operate a telecommunications packet-switched network
      for EURONET .   The Technical Annex to the above-mentioned
      Contract foresees the setting up and interconnection , via
      leased lines , of nodes in Frankfurt , London , Paris and
      Rome , to which both user terminals and host computers can
      be connected directly or via national networks .     Further­
      more , five concentrators or multiplexers which will allow
      terminals to be linked to the system and which will serve
      as regional connection points for multiple user and host
      lines , will be situated in Amsterdam , Brussels , Copenhagen ,
      Dublin and Luxembourg and will be linked to the nearest
      node by leased lines .   The aim is for the telecommunications
 ---pagebreak---                               -  12  -
    network to become self-funding, through cost-recovery
    from user charges , "but during the start-up period it is
    expected that an operating deficit will "be incurred
    before widespread use of the network has developed .    It
    is planned that the Community will share , up to a defined
    maximum , in the covering of a possible deficit in the
    operation of the network that may arise in the first
    years of operation and thus ensure the network 's
    operation during this critical period .    It is foreseen
    that during this period some further investment at a
    reduced level will "be required to increase reliability "by
    additional back-up equipment , to complete terminal and host
    connections , especially in those countries for which such host
    connections will not be made in the initial period, and to
    provide for enhancement of the network in response to growth
    in demand.     The special aspect of potential spare capacity,
    pending the establishment of a fully public Community data
    transmission network , is considered under point 1.5 *
1.2 Connection of host computers and terminals
    The policy with regard to the connection of host computers
    and terminals to EURONET is that technical requirements
    imposed upon user terminals and host computers should be
    reduced to a minimum .    The main responsibility for adapting
     and connecting a host computer to EURONET , including the
     associated financing, necessarily lies with the centre itself .
    However , the Commission , advised by CIDST , may undertake
     development projects of value to a number of host computers
    in Member countries or of value to groups of users of EURONET .
    As the PTTs are responsible for advising users on compatibility
    with the network protocols , the Commission will concentrate
     on problems arising out of special requirements regarding user
 ---pagebreak--- terminal protocols for using EURONET .
Operational responsibilities
The EURONET telecommunications network will "be managed by
the PTTs .   However, arrangements must be made for
discharging various management responsibilities :
  -  overall financial ecruilibrium . including management
     of the amortization fund, the contingency fund and
     the portfolio of rights emerging from EURONET ( e.g.
     network software , interface software , multilingual
     tools , etc .);
  -  monitoring of the PTT contract , in order to ensure
     overall planning of host connections and balanced
     growth of facilities , and the swift passage to public
     networks with the preservation of established rights
     of different categories of EURONET partners ;
  -  interfacing and cooperating with the PTTs . especially
     with regard to market research and network promotion
     (both within and outside the Community ), studying new
     sources of traffic , monitoring use of the network ,
     user support , tarifi cation , supply of information ,
     publicity and public relations ;
  -  representation function , both within and outside the
     Community , including negotiations with regard to export
     markets and outside connections to EURONET ( e.g.
     Switzerland, SCANNET, etc .)
A joint working group composed of representatives of CIDST
and the Commission will study the need for and the means of
fulfilling such management functions .
 ---pagebreak---                               -   14  -
1*4  Connections to other informati on networks
     The Council of Ministers' Resolution of 24 June 1971
     specifically calls for the association of the centres of
     other European States in the establishment of information
     systems or , where appropriate , facilitating their access
    to such systems .    With the emergence of EURONET as a
    powerful tool for   provision of information , it will there­
    fore "be necessary  to evaluate and, where appropriate , make
    arrangements , subject to fair and equitable conditions for
    the possible extension/connection of EURONET to those
    countries which have a close relationship with the Community,
    including those of the Lom€ Convention .
1.5 Cooperation with the PTTs on third party traffic
    The EXJRONET telecommunications network now being established
    in accordance with the terms of the contract between the
    Commission and the Community PTT administrations will have
    some spare capacity over and above that required for the
    initial years of EURONET operation .     The PTT administrations
    have always insisted on their intention that the EURONET
    telecommunications network should act as the embryonic public
    international data communications network for the Community .
    It is therefore to be anticipated that they will at an early
    date offer the facilities to third party traffic , it being
    understood that this third party traffic should not be
    detrimental to IDST traffic .    The Community itself however
    has a range of needs for data transmission , such as the
    interlinking of European parliaments , the exchange of
    economic, monetary, employment and social data with and
    between the Member States and the Commission , and the
    linkage of the Commission to its delegations in the national
    capitals , etc .   Since it is clearly to the financial
 ---pagebreak--- advantage of the Community that the surplus capacity be
used to a maximum , it is intended to cooperate with the
PTT administrations in marketing and administering this
surplus capacity, at the same time insisting upon a certain
priority for Community use .
The question furthermore arises as to the nature of the
longer-term partnership , i.e. what kind of co-responsibility
at Community level , if any , should there be for the general
provision of international data communications facilities
of the type being financed for EURONET .
 ---pagebreak---                                     16  -
 Chapter 2 t  Developing a common market for scientific and technical
information
The Community has a great variety of information needs f embracing
widely differing types of user groups . Potentially there are many
ways of meeting these needs through available Community resources ,
by both computerised and non-computerised means . It has , however ,
been a major stumbling block to progress in the use of scientific
and technical information within the Community that there has existed
no cohesive effort to match the spectrum of user needs with the
services available .    As a direct benefit of the experience gained
under the first Action Plan , there is now a unique opportunity to
bring together the various elements of the Community 's information
scene so as to allow the development of a true common market of
information .   Promoting such a market calls for a balance between
many interacting actors , notably the principle of free competition ,
user rights , voluntary coooperation and the need to build on what has
already been achieved .    Chapter 2 of the proposed Action Plan aims
at merging such varying interests in order to stimulate the develop­
ment of a healthy Community information market with the overriding
objective of providing concretebenefits for the user .
2.1  Investigation of user needs and monitoring use
     The establishment of the telecommunication network will provide
     for the retrieval and transmission of responses to enquiries for
     sources of specific scientific and technical information from a
     wide number of existing data bases .    A unique opportunity will
     then be provided for the Community for the improvement of services
     and the development of new ones , so as to maximise the utilisation
     of knowledge resources and thus enable the economic and social
     growth of the Community to be met more effectively .
     In order to develop such services , investigation of the full range
     of possible needs is required .    There is first the requirement
     to analyse the needs of different types of user , not only on a sec­
     toral basis but also as to functional activities , for example me­
     dium and small industries , industrial and other applied research .
     Furthermore , these needs may be of a multi –disciplinary nature and
 ---pagebreak---                               -  17  -
    involve not only scientific and technical information , but
    also a complex mixture of scientific and technical , com­
    mercial , legal and statistical information and data .    To
    meet these needs , services may be required which provide ,
    either by on-line or by other means , immediately applic­
    able information and data which has been analysed and eval­
    uated .   Such services may take the form of data banks , in­
    formation analysis centres , published 'state of the art 1
    reviews , industrial extension or marketing services , etc .
    For the effective development of the IDST data transmis­
    sion network , it will be necessary to monitor the use made
    of the various services by different types of user .    The
    effect of different types of marketing activities on the
    level of use in Member States will be studied to diBcern
    the ways in which further development and improvement can
    be made .   Surveys will be made at regular intervals detail­
    ing the information flow within sectors and , wherever pos­
    sible , these will include statistics and analyses available
    from Member States .   This work will be closely coordinated
    with that of the FTT management centre for the telecommu­
    nications network .   In this way , the Commission , the CIDST
    and the FTTs should be in a position , while preserving com­
    mercial confidentiality , to be cognizant of both the current
    and foreseeable status of deraajid and traffic for EURONET
    relating to IDST .
2.2 User referral , guidance and support
    Based on computerised indices and inventories of information
    sources in the Community and world-wide inventories maintained
    by international organisations , a referral and guidance system
    for EURONET will be developed .    A basic function of the refer­
    ral system will be to guide the user to the 100 or so data
    bases , including data banks , which are most likely to provide
    an answer to his query in EURONET or elsewhere .     The main
    tasks will therefore be *
       – to study the requirements for user referral and guidance
       - to initiate the creation of the appropriate referral system
 ---pagebreak---                                -   18  -
          -to disouss and coordinate -this activity with interested
          organisations suoh as COLATA, EUSIDIC , FID. ICSU-AB and
          IFLA
          to disseminate the information gathered to the Member
          States .
    In addition to this referral and guidance activity, support
    for users will be needed in a variety of other areas , notably
    the provision of manuals ( on a multilingual basis ), advice on
    terminals , etc .
2.3 Training users and specialists
    It is recognised that the responsibility for training users
    and specialists lies primarily at the national level .    However,
    there is an important need for encouragement and support in
    developing appropriate training courses , in accordance with the
    Council of Ministers' Resolution of 24 June 1971 *    In addition ,
    there will be a continuing requirement for forecasting and
    evaluating the changing educational needs of people who will be
    employed in information work .
    (1)
        CODATA        i  Committee on Data for Science and Technology
        EUSIDIC       t  European Association of Scientific Information
                         Dissemination Centres
        FID           :  Fédération Internationale de Documentation
        ICSU-AB       t  International Council of Scientific Unions
                         Abstracting Board
        IFLA          t  International Federation of Library Associations
 ---pagebreak---                                     - 19   -
2.4 Promotional activities
    The promotion and the sale of specific services offered "by a
    given service supplier will be the direct responsibility of
    that supplier .   However , general information concerning
    EURONET will need to "be assured by the CIDST and the Commission .
    Furthermore , support for promotional activities of the EURONET
    service suppliers is foreseen for :
       - market research (e.g. following requests by service
           suppliers for identification of potential user groups
          in countries other than' that where the service suppliers
           are located );
       - joint activities with the PTTs ( e.g. public relations ,
          trade fairs , etc .);
       -  preparation of basic documents for promotion of the
          overall network ( including brochures jointly prepared
          with the PTTs );
       - market analysis ( e . g'. monitoring of EURONET share of
           overall market , analysis of overall trends );
       - liaison with hosts on promotional activities ( e.g.
          information on services for general brochures , start-up
           dates of new services , availability of demonstrations , etc .),
           especially during launch period.
    Such activities will be carried out in close consultation with
    the parties concerned, notably service suppliers , CIDST , PTTs and
    data base suppliers .
2.5 Development of information systems and services , including
    sectoral activities
    EURONET will provide a basic Community-wide mechanism for gaining
    on-line access to a large range of information .      However , not all
    potential users will want to make direct use of the network
    themselves ( for example , because of lack of familiarity with on­
    line services , financial constraints , etc .).   An important
 ---pagebreak---                                 - 20  -
element therefore in a Community approach to assisting the
user of scientific and technical information is to cater for
support of users of both computerised and non-computerised
information .   A "blend of such services is required, taking
into account the wide range of users' needs and the types of
services available .    Small- and medium-size industry, for
example , has a considerable need for scientific and technical
information , but typically at the present time finds it convenient
to work through intermediate services offering repackaging of
information , rather than itself making direct access to on-line
systems .   Furthermore , the overall mix of facilities available
to the user includes the key services of libraries , which in
the context of EURONET will have the additional importance of
being the primary source of hard-copy documentation .     The
basic aim of this part of the Plan of Action is therefore to
encourage the development of a balanced mix of services to cater
for the needs of the full spectrum of users .
In the area of non-computerised information , it is envisaged to
promote cooperative action in such areas as :
  –  information analysis services
  -  repackaging of information
  -  information marketing services
   – back-up documentary supply for EURONET services#
With regard to computerised information, it is planned:
   – to promote cooperation in areas where apparent gaps exist
     or where there is a special interest of the Community ( e.g.
     agriculture , the economics of energy) f
   – to provide for operation and updating of existing inventories
      of research projects and expertise , ( e.g. AGREP, ENREP, ENDOC ,
 ---pagebreak---                                - 21   -
     ENEX*^, and to make thei& available on-line via the
     network , where this is not ensured within the context of
     other Community programmes or by other institutions ;
  -  to extend, in close collaboration with the appropriate
     CREST sub-committee , compilation of computerised inventories
     of research projects and expertise to other subject areas ;
  -  to study the technical and economic factors affecting the
                                 2)
     feasibility of data banks v ' in relation to the benefits
     attainable for users .   The results of such analyses would
     provide information for the planning, development and
     management of data banks throughout the Community .
Wherever possible , the data bases , including data banks ,
developed will be made available for access via EURONET .     Where
this is not possible or where users are not able to make direct
use of EURONET, measures will be necessary to make the data
 D
     AGREP       i Agricultural Research Projects
     ENREP       i Environmental Research Projects
     ENDOC       : Environmental Information / Documentation
                   Services / Centres
     ENEX        : Environmental Expertise
 2)
     For the purposes of this paper , data banks are defined as
     data bases containing factual , i.e. primary , data , as distinct
     from bibliographic data bases which point via references and
     abstracts to full text information in journals and other
     documents .
 ---pagebreak---                                      _  22 _
     available through other services offering intermediate enquiry-
     facilities , information repackaging , etc ., as indicated above .
2 .6 Contributing to international information services
     The increasing activities of the Community in ventures outside
     the Member States make increasingly urgent the definition and
     implementation of a Community information policy with regard to
     third countries .   The Council of Ministers' Resolution of
     24 June 1971 expressly stated that the Member States should
     harmonise their points of view with regard to third countries
     in the field of scientific and technical information and doc­
     umentation .   Among the international projects towards which a
     concerted attitude among Community Member States may need to be
     developed are : AGRIS , INIS , SPINES , DEVSIS , INPADOC , UNEP/
     IRS^^. Furthermore, the growing international nature of many
     information activities makes it increasingly important for the
     Community to play its full role in the relevant work of such
     organisations as UNESCO and OECD , and to collaborate with such
      1
        AGRIS         : Agricultural Information System
        INIS          : International Nuclear Information System
        SPINES          Science and Technology Policies Information
                        Exchange System (UNESCO )
         33EVSIS        Development Science Information System
         INPAIOC      : International Patent Documentation Center
        UNEP/lRS      : United Nations Environmental Programme /
                        International Referral System
 ---pagebreak---                                   -  23  -
      establishments as the future European Patent Organisation ,
      which is planned to commence operation in January 1978 *
2.7 . Commission 's host computer for EURONET and related information
      systems ( p.m . )
      The institutions of the Community have a unique role to play in
      providing information services to EURONET users in a wide range
      of fields . Many valuable data bases , including data banks , have
      been created originally for in-house purposes and , where appropriate ,
      it is planned to make these available to the general user who has
      paid for them through his taxes . Examples include information on
      import/export regulations at Community level , statistical data on
      industry, economics , social developments in the Community ( such as
      those available through the CRONOS system) and Community legislation
      ( CELEX) .
      Within the framework of the first Action Plan a dedicated computer
      has been installed for this .purpose at the Luxembourg Computer
      Centre , which will provide a service to EURONET users throughout
      the Community , by offering access to such information services
      developed by the Communities' institutions and which represent a
      public interest . In accordance with the wish of the majority of
      delegates to the CIDST that the Commission itself respect the
      principles laid down for other host computers elsewhere in the
      present document , it is intended to continue this operation on "the
      basis of complementary financing rather than within the present
      Action Plan .     The matter is therefore treated here and in the
      accompanying budgetary plan pro memoria only.
 ---pagebreak---                                        24  -
Chapter 3 t Promotion of technology and methodology for improving
information services , with special emphasis on those of EURONET
The Covincil of Ministers' Resolution of 24 June 1971 stated that
"the Member States shall coordinate their action regarding
the encouragement of technological progress in the science and
processing of documentation".    Action in promoting technological
progress in information services must he strictly geared to the needs
of the user and therefore the components of this part of the Action
Plan are all aimed at bringing about improved levels of service for
the user .   Important work in this regard is already underway ,
relating to the implementation of the telecommunications network ,
where close cooperation exists between the PTTs and the Community
in such areas as standards for connection of host computers and
terminals to EURONET .   Other important technological areas for
collaboration with the PTTs include the study of new uses for EURONET .
The common command language represents a major opportunity for
progress in information technology for the benefit of the user , as
does that of promoting information exchange standards .   The
Community has a vital role to play in the general area of standard­
isation to ensure that solutions emerge which meet user needs .    It
is recognised that standardisation is a goal which must be approached
gradually by voluntary cooperation between the Commission ( advised
by CIDST ), the providers of services and equipment and the PTT
administrations .   Any recommendations of standards for EURONET will
be made by the Commission and CIDST in close cooperation with rele­
vant organisations such as ISO, UNISIST, EUSIDIC , IFLA, ICIREPAT^ and
(1 )
      ISO         t  International Standards Organisation
     UNISIST      t  United Nations International System for Inform­
                     ation in Science and Technology
      ICIHEPAT    t  International Cooperation in Information Retrieval
                     and Examining Patent Offices
 ---pagebreak---                                      - 25  -
ICSU-AB , and provision mast "be made for dissemination ef signif­
icant results .   Furthermore , this chapter of the Plan of Action
takes account of those aspects of multilingual system development
which are related to IDST *
3.1  Standardisation of technical interfaces for EURONET host
     computers and terminals
     The close cooperation between the PTT administrations and
     the Community in the implementation of EURONET means that
     the Community has an important role to play in the area of
     tele-informatics standards .    The EURONET project was already
     a key factor in the development of the X25 interface and is
     the major influence in the work on the ESP ( 32 ) terminal
     protocol .   Other standardisation work in this area in which
     the Community should cooperate where necessary with the PTTs
     in the light of EURONET interests is the development of higher
     level terminal protocols (notably screen-oriented terminals )
     and file transfer protocols .    The primary motivation is that
     of gaining satisfactory standards from the point of view of the
     EURONET user , but such work has important implications too for
     the industrial sector .
3.2  Developing new IDST uses of EURONET
     The network now being implemented is founded essentially on
     the need to provide greatly improved Community-wide access to
     existing information systems .    However, it is believed that
     there are new and important categories of potential users , who
     would benefit considerably by the new facilities , for example
     in the area of computer to computer applications .    Such
     additional users would assist the financial equilibrium of the
     network and this approach would be consistent with the aims of
 ---pagebreak---                                         26 -
     the Community PTTs .   It is therefore proposed to undertake
     systematic mapping of new applications for the network , in
     close cooperation with the PTTs and with qualified research
     centres in the member countries .
3.3 Common command language
     Of special interest to EURONET users will he the possibility
     to access multiple information systems through a single network .
    Experience shows , however, that users find difficulty in
     changing from one interactive system to another .    Within the
     framework of the first Action Plan , a study has shown that a
     common command language for on-line interrogation of data bases
     is feasible .   A major opportunity now exists to assist users
     and, in conjunction with computer manufacturers , host computer
     operators to implement the proposed common command language
    within EURONET .    This task will play a key role in helping
    the user make full use of different information services
     available to him through HJRONET .
3.4  Standards for information exchange
    The accelerated growth of information processing over the past
    two decades has led to an increasing need for the development of
     standards for a wide range of information handling activities ,
     such as retrieval techniques , training abstracting , library ser­
    vices , etc *  It is proposed to initiate steps to coordinate the
    development of such work at Community level , thereby promoting
    standardisation of methodologies and techniques and encouraging
    the diffusion of benefits to a Community-wide professional
    population .   Among the specific areas in which such standard­
    isation work can be encouraged under the Action Plan are biblio­
    graphic exchange standards , cataloguing, abstracting and
    indexing rules , and standard formats for data banks .
 ---pagebreak---                                      -  27  -
3.5  Pilot programmes in applying advanced information technology
     Prom the continuous study of developments in information
     technology , specific programmes will "be selected on a strict
     cost-benefit basis in relation to users' needs within the context
     of EURONET objectives to act as pilot projects for possible later
     wider application .   This action is essential for the safe­
     guarding of users' interests .    The field would otherwise be
     left almost entirely to the manufacturers of equipment , with the
     consequent danger that user needs would be overlooked .    For
     example , with regard to the impending new developments in
     facsimile transmission , the user 's interest must prevail if the
     wide-ranging benefits of this technology are to be gained .    In
     selecting specific areas for action , the normal processes of
     systems analysis will be applied f including monitoring and
     definition of requirements ! feasibility study, detailed
     analysis , system definition and design , leading to imple­
    mentation with regard to limited , defined objectives on a pilot
    scheme basis only .    Among such possible projects would be :
       -  portable software packages for data banks
       -  applications of graphic terminals to scientific and technical
          information
       -  on-line input for updating data bases and data banks .
    An important element in the approach to such topics would be
    recognition of the differing roles and interests of the user ,
    the equipment manufacturer , the host operator and the data base
    supplier .
3.6 Information exchange on information technology
    There is need to ensure that experiences gained with emerging
    information technology are shared rapidly with all the Member
    States .    Information on developments in information technology
    will therefore be continuously channelled to all Member States
    and exchange of know-how between national centres in different
    Member States be promoted by : .                                ~
 ---pagebreak---                                -  28  -
        – publishing and distributing Community documents in the
          field of information technology
        – continuing to organise bi-annual congresses on the
          subject of information systems and networks (according to
          previous practice , the 4th and 5th Congresses will "be due
          in 1979 and 1981 respectively)
        – organising round-table discussions on both general and
          specialised topics in information technology in order to
          provide a platform for information exchange .
3.7 * Multilingual tools for IDST
      This topic was an integral part of the first Action Plan , but as
      the field of development has expanded into more general multilingual
      areas a separate programme has been established .
      However, the CIDST has expressed its wish to continue to be
      associated with IDST aspects of policies and applications in the
      multilingual field and provision for some specifically IDST -
      related work is therefore made within the context of this Plan of
      Action . Among the work foreseen is the compilation of multilingual
      vocabularies and thesauri in selected subject fields .
 ---pagebreak---                                                                           :-ΐΛΐΐ6χ Δ.
                                                                     (MAU )
                     Budgetary Plan
             for 2nd Plan of Action , 1978-80             1978   1979      1980       TOTAL
 Chaptar J i    TURNING EURONET INTO A PUBLIC OPERATIONAL 1.40   1.50     1.20        4.10
 –g–IIT         ON-LINE INFORMATION NETWORK
 1.1
         Starting operation of the telecommuni­
                                                          1.10
         cation network
 1.2     Connection of host computers and terminals       0.15
                                                                        i
                                                                        1
                                                                        i
1.3-1.5  EURONET - related requirements                   0.15
 Chapter 2 :   DEVELOPING A COMMON MARKET FOR
               SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL INFORMATION
                                                          0.95   1.10     1.20        3.25
2.1-2.2  User needs and user support aspects              0.15
 2.3     Training users and specialists                   0.05
 2.4     Promotional activities                           0.20
         Information systems and services , including
2.5-2.6  sectoral activities
                                                          0.55
         Commission 's host computer for EURONET and
 2.7                                                      p. m .
         related information systems
 Chapter 3 «   PROMOTION OF TECHNOLOGY AND METHODOLOGY
                                                          0.50   0.50     0.50        1.50
               FOR IMPROVING INFORMATION SERVICES
                                                                       I
3.1-3.3  Technological development of EURONET services    0.25         !
                                                                       1
3.4-3.6  Information technology aspects                   0.15
                                                                       1
 3.7     Multilingual tools for IDST                      0.10
                                           CONTINGENCY    0.15                        0.15
                                           TOTAL          3.00   3.10     2.90        9.00
 ---pagebreak---                                                                        Annex 5
                OPINION OP CIDST ON SECOND PLAN OP ACTION FOR IEST    7.4.1977
                                   1978 - 1980
The Committee for Scientific and Technical Information and Documentation ( CIDST)
Having regard to the Council Resolutions of 24 June 1971 and 14 January 1974,
 Taking account of the programmes developed and results achieved since the
launching of the first Action Plan , 1975 - 1977 » decided by the Counoil on
18 March 1975 ,
Taking account of the agreement with the FTT administrations of the nine
Member States to implement and operate a telecommunications network for
EURONET ,
Taking account of the readiness of the Member States to link available inform­
ation resources in EURONET to the network for Community–wide access , and ef the
desirability that the Commissien does likewise .
Taking account of the large consensus of opinion reached by Member States
on the policies and principles as expressed in Doc . CIDST/250/76 final for
the sharing of information resources , as a means of contributing to economic ,
industrial and social progress in the Community ,
Taking account of the extensive discussions at its 21st and 22nd meetings ,
including examination of Docs . CIDST/266/76 and CIDST/275/77     well as its
parts A and B ,
–   Considers it essential that a second Community Action Plan in the field
   of scientific and technical information to cover the years 1978 – 1980
   is implemented , building on the results and actions initiated under the
   first Action Plan and supplementing them by new approaches as required ;
– Considers that the highest priority should be attached toi
    .  turning EURONET into an operational on-line scientific and technical
       information network , to be integrated as soon as possible into a
       European public data transmission networkj
 ---pagebreak---                                                         J
                                         -  2  -
       • developing the information markets in the Community, with special
           consideration for the varied user needs and for support of the various
           categories of users ;
       •  promoting technology and methodology for improving information ser­
         vices , with special emphasis on those of EURONET;
- Stresses the need for efficient information systems and services
      (data bases , data hanks and other information tools , including refer­
      ral services) in order to provide the users in the Community with the
      information they require ;
- Recommends to the Commission to propose a second Plan of Action along
      these lines to the Council immediately;
- Considers that the implementation of this 3 year Plan will require
      provision for expenditure of 9*0 MAU;
- Wishes to he associated with STI aspects of policies and applications
      in the multilingual field for which an amount of 300,000 AU is recom­
      mended under the Plan of Action;
- Decides to transmit the present opinion to the Commission of the Eu­
      ropean Communities as well as to the Committee for Scientific and
      Technical Research ( CREST) .
( German proposal for rewording the last "but one indent of CIDST 's opinion)
- wishes to foresee an annual expenditure of 0,3 MAU for multilingual projects in
    Γ' Λ 1
   the framework of the total expenditure of the 2nd Action Plan in order to
   overcome the linguistic "barriers existing in the information and documentation
   field of the Community and considers it necessary that all projects relevant to
    IH3T within the Plan of Action for the improvement of the transfer of information
   "between European languages should "be examined "by CIDST if their incorporation
    into the 2nd Action Plan for IDST should no longer "be possible .
    In the case that a yearly expenditure of only 0,1 MAU is foreseen for multilingual
   projects within the 2nd Action Plan , the overall expenditure of 9 MMJ should be
   reduced by 0,6 MAU.)
 ---pagebreak---                                                  - 3 -
                                        COMMENTS BY NATIONAL DELEGATIONS
      Belgium : Pending effective rationalisation of the offer of information services via
                 EURONET , the Belgian delegation reserves its position on CIDST 's opinion on
                 the 2nd Action Plan and the documents CIDST 275/77 + A + B describing this
                 plan and the related badget . If such rationalisation is not achieved , the
                 Belgian delegation considers it necessary to modify substantially the content
                 and budget of the 2nd Action Plan.
      Denmark: Approves fully the wording of CIDST 's opinion.
      France :    In full agreement with the wording of CIDST 's ©pinion , the French delegation
                 maintains its reservations as to its request for the setting up of a new
                 controlling mechanism (management committee ) distinct from CIDST. This problem
                 will be submitted to COREPER by the French authorities .
 '.R. Germany
F.R.  Germany :: Approves in principle the 2nd Action Plan and CIDST 's opinion. Proposes to say
                 approximately 9 MAU and a new wording for the last but one indent .
      Ireland
      Ireland :: Approves in principle CIDST 's opinion , but reserves its overall approval on
                 the programme until satisfactory information on the telecommunications network
                 is received .
        Italy: Approves fully the wording of CIDST 's opinion .
   Luxembourg : Approves fully the wording of CIDST 's opinion .
 Netherlands : Approves fully the wording of CIDST 's opinion .
         U.K. : Accepts the need for a 2nd Action Plan , but reserves its position on the formal
                 proposals until the assurances which it has sought in its opening statement
                 on 23 March , 1977 » have been given in writing. It also reserves its position
                 on the 3 year budget , pending consultation with national authorities .
                 Furthermore , the U.K. delegation considers a total figure of about 2,8 MAU
                 including the contingency fund and the amount for multilingual projects
                 sufficient for the 1978 budget .
 ---pagebreak---                                                      Annex 6
                         FINANCIAL SHEET
                            PART OHE
           (information to be provided for all projects :
                   existing and new) (l )
Identification of the sheet :   legal and administrative data
1.0 . Number of the sheet (to be completed by D.G. XIX) ..
1.1 . Date of the sheet (version of                )
1.2 .  Budget heading: chapter 36
1.3 * Financial years : 1978-1979-1980
1.4 *  Legal basis
       1.4*0   Council Decision of ••••*••.•., 0 J
       1.4*1   Commission Décision of
               (if the Commission has sole power)
       1*4*2   Proposal forwarded to the Council on •••••••; OJ
       1*4*3   Proposal forwarded to the Commission on :   June 1977
       1.4*4 Proposal being drawn up by the departments , other
1*5 *  Authorizing department : D.G. XIII
Title of the pro.iect :  Second Community Plan of Action in the field of
                         scientific and technical information and docu­
                         mentation .
• Part two' of this sheet contains the additional data to be provided
for new projects only.
 ---pagebreak---                                         - 2   -
3 . Description of the project /persons concerned
    3.0 . Description
          a)  conversion of EUBONET into an on-line public information network
          t>) development of a common market in scientific and technical information
          c ) promotion of the technology and methodology required to improve
              information services , with special emphasis on those of EURONET.
    3.1 . Persons concerned
          3.1.0  Category * Officials .
                            Beneficiaries *   Community Institutions which are users
                            of the scientific and technical information of Member
                            States , industry, scientists , research workers , general
                            public , admini strati ons .
          3»1«1 Number *    25 A, 13 B , 20 C plus a variable number (50 to 100 )
                            of experts and persons employed under contract .
          3.1.2  Geographical location * Luxembourg and , in the case of the bene­
                                          ficiaries . all Member States .
 ---pagebreak---    Objectives of the pro.iect
   4*0. General objective(s ) laid down by the Treaties or by other decisions
          (if possible , preliminary quantification)
          Coordination of the activities of Member States in the field of
          information and documentation in science and technology ( IDST) and
          the establishment of a European network of IDST (Resolution of the
          Council and of the Representatives of the Member States meeting
          within the Council on 24 June 1971 » and the Council decision of
          18 March 1975 relating to the first Plan of Action in the field of
          scientific and technical information)
   4.1 .  The more specific objective of the project and the contribution it
          makes towards the general objective : annual estimates at constant
          prices in million EUA» ( l )
                                             1978          1979         1980
          a) EURONET network                 1.40          1.50         1.20
          b ) common market for IDST         0.95          1.10         1.20
          c ) methodology and technology     0.50          0.50         0.50
5. Justification of the pro.ject selected to attain the objective ( 2)
   The first Plan of Action made it possible to define , and totally or partly
   attain , a certain number of firm- objectives (especially the telecommunications
   network for EURONET, set up under contract by the 9 national PTTs ) or new
   services ( especially a certain number of sectoral information systems ) whose
   development must be completed . It also made it possible to draw up a very
   precise programme for each of the projects to be undertaken in order to
   finalise the objectives of the second Plan , which is designed to give the
   public access to a complete Community tool .
   ( 1 ) The main aim is to establish a link between :
         - an objective which is as precise as possible ( year-by-year figures )
         and
         – the project selected (its contribution towards the general objective ).
         Where several projects are directed towards the same general objective ,
         an attempt should be made to specify the individual contribution of each
         project (problem which may have to be resolved with D.G. XIX)
   ( 2) If it is a new proposal , the advantages and disadvantages of the proposed
         project as compared with other possible means of action should be assessed .
         In the case of the continuation of a project , consideration should be
         given as to the value of pursuing the activity in its present form .
 ---pagebreak---                                          -   4 -
o. Expenditure
   6*0 . Overall expenditure for the project for the whole of its expected duration
          6.0.0 Expenditure chargeable to the Community budget
                 For 1978-1900 » (i.e. total expenditure )
                 9 million EUA at constant prices , that is 10.392 million EUA at
                 current prices .
          6.0.1 Expenditure chargeable to national budgets
                 Nil .
         6.0.2 Expenditure chargeable to other sectors at national level
                 Nil .
   6.1 . Appropriations authorized , commitments and payments
         6.1*0 Commitment s ( Commit ment appropriations ) ( l )
                 See 6.1.1
                           Previous financial     Current financial   Subsequent financial
                                   years                year                      years
                       ( commitments undertaken)   (appropriations        ( estimates of
                                                     authorized )           commitments )
                                    1975          1976           1977 1978      1979    1980
   Amounts
    New project                   1.840           2.15           2.65 4.8       2.8     2.792
    Previous project              O.484
              Total             . 2.324
   Rate of increase
         6.1.1 Payments (payment appropriations ) ( l )
                          Previous financial      Current financial   Subsequent financial
                                  years                 year                      years
                            (payments made )       (appropriations        ( estimâtes of
                                                     authorized)             payments )
                                                                      1978     1979     1980
   Amounts                                                            2.85     4»85     2.692
   Rate of increase
   (l ) At the present time , the budget generally contains appropriations of an
        annual nature . Commitments appropriations ( or commitment authorizations )
        and payment appropriations only apply in the fields of Euratom, the Regional
        Fund and the Social Fund .
 ---pagebreak---                                      -   5 -
6. 2* Size of appropriations requested : appropriations requested as a per­
      centage of the total appropriations for 1975 ( to *>e completed by
      D.G * XIX).
6*3 * Explanation of overall cost and appropriations requested
      6*3*0   Method of calculation
              The figures quoted are the result of feasibility studies and
              consultations with experts from the Member States , in particular
              those of CIDST *
      6*3*1   Details of any connection between the cost and basic hypotheses
              regarding the general economic situation
              Expenditure relating to the various aspects of the project has
              been calculated on the basis of prices at the end of 1976 and
              their costs adjusted as a function of the planned timetable for
              payment and the basic hypotheses of the Commission for the es­
              timation of costs in future years .
      6*3.2   Main factors of uncertainty
              6.3.2.0  Uncertainty of the estimates because of prices , pro­
                       duction risks , •••••
                       indication of the bracket for 1975/197 6/1977
                                     Nil
              6.3*2.1  Uncertainty with regard to the application procedures
                       ( different rates of Community participation , etc )
                                     Nil
              6*3.2.2  Other
                       Technological progress ( computer , telecommunications , etc )
                       could affect the cost of the project to some extent .
6.4 . Timetable (projected rate of payment during the 1978 financial year )
      if possible
      lst quart er                  2nd quart er                 3rd quart er
        500.000                       750,000                     1,600,000
      (Progression due to the need to negotiate contracts ).
 ---pagebreak---                                      -  6  -
                                     PART TWO
                       (Additional data for a new project ) ( l )
9.   Information regarding staffing and the appropriations for administrative
     expenditure necessary for the implementation of the pro.iect
     (For the expected duration of the project and at least for the current
    financial year and three subsequent years )
     9.0 . Staff and appropriations required
           9*0.0 Total number (and grade ) of staff required for the project
                  25 A, 13 B and 20 C
           9*0.1  Number of additional staff which might prove necessary
                  (number and grade ; purpose to be stated)
                  16 A , 9 B and 14 C for marketing and the complex management
                  of the EURONET network and for the development and instal­
                  lation of new information systems to be incorporated into
                  EURONET.         *
           9*0.2 Appropriations for staff (Title l )
                  (to be established by DCs IX and XIX).
(l ) The Commission decision of 28 November 1973 on new guidelines on budgetary
      matters refers to the need to establish a 'financial memorandum* made up
      of the two parts of the financial sheet * for any new project .
 ---pagebreak---                                                                 Annex 7
                                    OPINION
                       of the Scientific and Technical
                          Research Committee ( OHBST )
                   on the proposal for a Council Decision
                        adopting a second three-year
                       plan of action in the field of
                information and documentation in science and
                                  technology
       The Scientific and Technical Research Committee ( CBEST ) examined
the a^ove proposal at its meetings on 6 and 7 October and 7 and
8 November 1977 and adopted the following opinion:
1 . SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL CONTENT OP THE PROPOSALS AND GENERAL       '
   . COMMENTS
          The Committee notes with satisfaction the results achieved
     since the implementation of the first plan of action in the field
     of IDST ( 1975-1977 ) adopted by the Council on 18 March 1975 .
          In view of the need to share the substantial information
     resources existing in the Member States of the Community, CREST
     stresses the urgency of turning EURONET into a public operational
     information network giving users on-line access to IDST and destined
     to be integrated as soon as possible into a European public data-
     transmission network *
          However , it recommends the Commission and the CIDST to persevere
     in their efforts to rationalize the information services offered via
     EURONET while ensuring free and fair competition within the Community
     as regards the provision of services in accordance with the
     guidelines established by CHEST £"see CHEST/250/76 , paragraphs 2*1 ,
     2*3 and 2*4 7, and in accordance with the Council Resolution
R/2921 e/77 (HECH 40 )
 ---pagebreak---                                    - 2 -
    of 24 June 1971 which states that : "the Member States shall
    co-ordinate their action regarding the encouragement of initiatives
   of whatever origin for the creation and rational development of
   scientific and technical information and documentation systems, so
   that through their permanent association a European network will be
   established • *••' • The Committee asks the CIDST to submit , within
   five months , a first report on the results of the efforts undertaken
   towards rationalization*
         The Committee is satisfied with the scientific and technical
   content and with the priorities adopted in the Commission proposals
   which it considers to be of interest to the Community *
2. FONDS
         The Committee considers that the budget allocation for
   implementation of the second plan of action should be fixed by
   decision of the Council at a ceiling of 9 MUA for a period of
   three years , 3 MUA of which would be for 1978 ^fsee text of the
   proposal for a Council Decision annexed hereto^/*
3* TMPT.wwngyTriq DETAILS
         The Committee considers that in implementing the second plan
   of action, particular attention should be paid to the administration
   of the plan, and that a fundamental role should be played by GIDST *
 ---pagebreak---      The Committee approves the objective of converting EURONET
into a public data-transmission network* However , it considers
that the Community should be in a position to control the operation
and development of the network during the initial stages . The
Community should , in particular y ensure that :
- Community investments granted should primarily be for the benefit
  of IDST users ;
- the transmission of communications on EURONET for third parties
  does not interfere with the use and development of the network
  for IDST requirements which should continue to have priority#
     The Committee also recommends that the CIDST duties should be
defined as indicated in Annex 2 to the proposal for a Decision#
     The Committee asks the Commission to propose , as quickly as
possible and after consultation of the CIDST , appropriate management
machinery for EURONET and to report to the CREST#
LINKS WITH THE PLAN OF ACTION FOR THE IMPROVEMENT OF THE TRANSFER
OF INFORMATION BgTWEEN EUROPEAN LANGUAGES
2~R/49/77J                     ~
     The Comnvittfift . in view of the links between the second plan of
action on IDST and the action plan for the transfer of information
between European languages , recommends that the Commission ensure
co-ordination between the two action plans in consultation with
CIDST and CETIL ( Committee of Experts for the Transfer of Information
between Community Languages)#