Tag Archives: innovation

Liberal Democrats deliver billions of EU research funding for small businesses

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MEPs voted today to approve the EU’s new science programme, Horizon 2020, which will invest almost £60 billion in research and innovation over the next seven years.

Fiona Hall, leader of the UK Liberal Democrat MEPs and European industry spokesperson, commented:

“This is an exciting time for the research community and for businesses up and down the country. Liberal Democrats have ensured that over £2.3 billion will be allocated to small innovative businesses, which provide the key to creating new skilled jobs and rebalancing the economy. We also pushed for simpler rules to reduce administrative costs and make it easier for smaller firms to apply for funding.” Continue reading →

Hall: EU announces 22 billion euro boost for innovation

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The European Commission has announced that it will be teaming up with the private sector and national governments to invest 22 billion euros in key sectors over the next seven years. The funding will be part of the new EU research and innovation programme “Horizon 2020,” which is due to be voted on in the European Parliament in September.

Leader of the UK Liberal Democrat MEPs and European industry spokesperson Fiona Hall commented:

“Investing in innovation is the key to delivering sustainable jobs to the UK while promoting the transition to a greener, more competitive economy.” Continue reading →

Lyon: Lib Dem MEPs back smaller and more growth-oriented EU budget

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The European Parliament voted today on a resolution to approve the deal reached on the EU’s long-term budget last week, pending a final vote in September.

Liberal Democrat MEP and Vice-President of the European Parliament’s Budget Committee George Lyon commented:

“Liberal Democrats in the European Parliament have consistently argued for a smaller EU budget that can be spent more effectively and is more targeted towards creating jobs and growth. That is exactly what the deal reached last week will deliver. Continue reading →