§ Mr. HoodTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what the outcome was of the Research Council held in Brussels on 10 December; what the Government's stance was on each issue discussed, including its voting record; and if she will make a statement. [22679]
§ Ms HewittThe Research Council of 10 December:
- 1. Reached unanimous political agreement on the Sixth EU Research and Development Framework Programme 2002–06, with an overall budget of euro 16.27 billion.
- 2. Reached unanimous political agreement on the Sixth EURATOM Research and Development Framework Programme 2002–06, with an overall budget of euro 1.23 billion.
- 3. Adopted a Resolution concerning the promotion of mobility for researchers in the European Research Area.
- 4. Received a presentation by the Commission on its Action Plan on Science and Society.
- 5. Adopted conclusions in relation to the promotion of closer links between the EU and the European Space Agency (ESA).
- 6. Received a short oral report from the Commission on its development of a Life Sciences and Biotechnology strategy.