EU framework initiative for European research to focus on nanotechnology
Meeting on 24 September, the EU Competitiveness Council adopted conclusions calling for continuity between the Sixth and Seventh Framework Programmes, but with initiatives to simplify procedures. The framework programmes are EU initiatives to fund and develop European research for future manufacturing opportunities. Ministers also stressed the need for the reinforcement of nanotechnology research at European level.
The Council reviewed the findings of an expert panel charged with carrying out a mid-term evaluation of the new instruments of the Sixth Framework Programme (FP6) and endorsed its findings. The main conclusions of the review were that the new instruments and their aims are justified, but that more needs to be done to ensure that smaller and less experienced entities are able to participate in the programmes and that the instruments are correctly understood.
The Council conclusions also welcome the Commission's stated intention to introduce corrective measures, principally in relation to clarifying the objectives of the new instruments and what is meant by 'critical mass', improving participation by industry, small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) and entities from the new Member States, and improving procedures for consortia building and proposal submission.
Nanotechnology was under discussion in the light of a recent Commission communication on a European strategy for nanotechnology. Ministers emphasised the important potential of nanosciences and nanotechnologies in areas such as health care, information technologies, materials sciences, manufacturing, instrumentation, energy, environment, security and space, and thus their significance for quality of life, sustainable development and competitiveness.
The Council invited Member States to reinforce their national research in the field of nanotechnology, while inviting the Commission to draw up an action plan for nanotechnology following a stakeholder debate. The Commission was also asked to engage in an international dialogue with a view to establishing a framework of shared principles for the safe, sustainable, responsible and socially acceptable development and use of nanotechnologies.
