GALILEO, satellite radionavigation programme: definition phase result

The committee adopted the report by Brigitte LANGENHAGEN (EPP-ED, D) on the Commission communication. The committee said that the EU must press ahead with the development of the system, and pointed out that the Stockholm European Council had stressed the "importance of launching the GALILEO project without delay". However, MEPs stressed that the budgetary authority (Parliament and Council) must have a clear picture of how the project would be financed before taking a decision. The Commission must make every effort to enlist the support of countries which were hesitant about GALILEO for financial reasons. The committee also expressed doubts as to the willingness of private investors to take part in the project. The Commission was therefore asked to present proposals for a management structure for GALILEO. In addition, a general financial structure should be devised by 15 November 2001. These arrangements should be designed in such a way as to encourage European industry to take part in the development and subsequent phases. �