ESC sets a date to discuss the impact of FP5 and look towards FP6
The European Union's Economic and social committee (ESC) will discuss the follow up, evaluation and optimisation of the economic and social impact of research and technological development in the EU at its forthcoming plenary session on 20 and 21 September. The debate will focus on a report by ESC member Mr Bernabei on the economic and social impact of RTD in the EU 'from the Fifth Framework programme towards the Sixth Framework programme'. The following related issues are also on the agenda: - the innovation policies of SMEs and the craft sector (6th Euromed summit); - promotion of electricity from renewable energy sources in the internal electricity market; - principles and guidelines for the Community's audiovisual policy in the digital age; - renewable resources: a contribution by rural areas to active protection of the climate and sustainable development; - official inspections in the field of animal nutrition; - substances that deplete the ozone layer/allocation; - substances that deplete the ozone layer/metered dose inhalers and medical drug pumps. The Committee of the Regions has also scheduled to meet on the 20 and 21 September. This is the first time the two institutions have organised their plenary sessions concurrently. In addition to its general affairs, the Committee of the Regions will hear a further two opinions on the promotion of energy and on greenhouse gas emissions during the session.