The Commission's proposal for the Fifth Framework Programme The European Commission, DG XII, has published a public edition of the proposal for the Fifth RTD Framework Programme (1998-2002), adopted on 9 April 1997. The booklet includes both the draft Decisions, for the Fifth Framework Programme and the associated Euratom Framework Pr... The European Commission, DG XII, has published a public edition of the proposal for the Fifth RTD Framework Programme (1998-2002), adopted on 9 April 1997. The booklet includes both the draft Decisions, for the Fifth Framework Programme and the associated Euratom Framework Programme, and an explanatory memorandum. This gives details of the Commission's proposals regarding the aims and objectives of Community research, and its proposals for the number and structure of the specific RTD programmes within the Programme. Under the proposal, the Commission has maintained its earlier ideas on concentrating European research efforts. It proposes six programmes: three thematic research programmes, covering the living world and the ecosytem, the Information Society and promoting competitive and sustainable growth; and three horizontal programmes, covering international cooperation, innovation and SME participation, and improving human potential. The Commission's proposal is now being debated by the European Parliament and the Council, who will decide its final shape. The Commission is also due to present its formal proposals concerning the budget for the Fifth Framework Programme in July 1997, which will complete the proposal.
