Strasbourg, 28 Jun 2006
In an own-initiative report, MEPs point out that Europe is still lagging behind the USA and Japan on growth, research and productivity. They propose ways to change this, including promoting entrepreneurship, providing adequate research funding and pooling existing knowledge.
Other demands of the report include: stronger support for European researchers, especially at the start of their careers, the creation of a single market for scientists, improved employment conditions for scientists, measures to stem the brain drain and to foster a culture which celebrates innovation, European prizes for innovation, regional zones of innovation and networking of zones in different regions and countries.
MEPs also call for sweeping reform of the EU's state aid rules, shifting subsidies from big, ailing companies to small and innovative businesses. And they propose the implementation of a tax credit system to encourage the service sector to take an interest in research findings and their utilisation.
The report was drafted by Pilar del CASTILLO VERA (EPP-ED, ES) and adopted by the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy by 40 votes to 2.
Pilar DEL CASTILLO VERA (EPP-ED, ES)
Rapporteur
Report: A6-0204/2006
Implementing the Community Lisbon Programme: more research and innovation -investing for growth and employment
Procedure: Own-initiative
Debate: 04.07.2006