ESC calls for larger R&D budget and a cautious approach to new instruments
The European Economic and Social Committee (ESC) has called for a 50 per cent increase in the overall Community research and technological development and demonstration (RTD&D) budget and for continuity of the existing programme. Meeting in a plenary session on 11 July, the ESC unanimously adopted an opinion on the Sixth RTD&D (research and technological development and demonstration) proposals, calling for the budgetary increase as a medium term political goal. The committee called on Member States and industry to act likewise. Concerned by the risks associated with introducing new structures and instruments, the committee also recommended ensuring the continuity of the current programme. The new proposed instruments, such as networks of excellence, integrated projects and the application of Article 169 should be defined in more detail and accompanied by appropriate training programmes, agreed the ESC. The committee also agreed that the new instruments should be combined with the Community's regional funds in order to support the transnational regional development of clusters, networks and infrastructures. The new tools should not however absorb all of the financial resources available into a small number of large projects and networks, the ESC stressed. Other priorities for the ESC are the creation of an 'energy and transport' heading as part of the thematic actions, the strengthening of the EURATOM programme and support for leading edge and longer term research activities and SME participation.