Local view for "http://purl.org/linkedpolitics/eu/plenary/2001-03-15-Speech-4-051"
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"en.20010315.4.4-051"2
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". – Mr President, I wish to begin by congratulating Mr Purvis on his comprehensive report. The Commission supports the basic thrust of the report. We can only welcome it as a recognition of the economic, social and environmental impact of biotechnology. Biotechnology has a very important role to play in fulfilling the commitment made by the Lisbon European Council to develop a competitive, knowledge-based economy. That is also the basis for creating employment in Europe.
The Commission has already indicated the priority it attaches to biotechnology in its proposal for the next research framework programme. Therefore we share the report's view on the need to promote a competitive European biotechnology industry. A study on the position of the European biotechnology industry should be ready later this spring, and I shall make that available to Parliament. Further, let me say how much the Commission appreciates the report's particular merit of taking a comprehensive view on all major issues related to biotechnology. I should like to congratulate the rapporteur on this successful attempt.
In its report to the Stockholm European Council, which takes place next week, the Commission underlines the importance of biotechnology as a frontier technology for growth and employment, and as a tool for sustainable development. The Commission also announces a broad policy paper setting up a strategic vision for life sciences and biotechnology after 2010, which will be ready by the end of this year. The policy paper and action plan will be the Commission's response to Parliament's wish for an initiative. Obviously, in preparing this policy document we can now carefully take into account the views of the European Parliament as expressed in the report.
I agree with those who say that we need a broad debate on the ethical and societal impacts of the issue. If and when we want to promote the biotechnology industry and its possibilities, we must always be open about it, otherwise we will not be successful. We will also base our report on the indications from the Industry Ministers’ informal meetings on 16 February and possible indications from the European Council next week. I expect the European Council will take a very strong position on this issue.
It is also clear that we will have to build on expertise in many fields, as well as consulting a wide range of stake-holders. We need to hold discussions with a wide range of people: scientists, experts and citizens. There are no simple answers to the needs and questions raised by biotechnology, but it is the Commission's intention to provide – with you – a considered and comprehensive strategy before the end of this year."@en1
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