European space policy: The results of the European Space Conference of 20 December 1972

Recommendation 698 (1973)

Author(s):

Parliamentary Assembly

Origin

Assembly debate on 25 January 1973 (25th Sitting) (see Doc. 3245, report of the Committee on Science and Technology). Text adopted by the Assembly on 25 January 1973 (25th Sitting).

The Assembly,

1. Recalling its Recommendation 251 (1960) proposing the setting up of a European space agency "to undertake a space programme based on a space vehicle developed and built in Europe" and its subsequent recommendations, in particular Recommendation 677, unanimously adopted by the Assembly in October 1972 ;

2. Expressing its satisfaction that, after twelve years of persistent efforts by the Assembly, European governments have, at the European Space Conference in Brussels on 20 December 1972, agreed to the establishment of a European Space Agency ;

3. Welcoming the agreement at that same conference on a European space policy, including the integration or national programmes into a European space programme, a European launcher policy, and participation in the post-Apollo programme, to be carried out and managed within a common European framework ;

4. Expressing the hope that these decisions of the European Space Conference have laid the basis for a lasting and coherent space programme and for a developing Atlantic technological partnership ;

5. Believing that in order for the European space programme to succeed, the executive of the European Space Agency must be given adequate powers of decision and should establish a permanent relationship with the Consultative Assembly of the Council of Europe ;

6. Expressing its appreciation of the work undertaken by ELDO, ESRO and the European Space Conference, and its satisfaction at the close and fruitful working relations existing between these intergovernmental bodies and the Assembly ;

7. Convinced that a European space programme will contribute to Europe's technological, economic and political independence, and enhance its cultural influence in the world, 8.

8. Recommends the Committee of Ministers to invite the governments of the member States :

to take the necessary steps to ensure that all European space programmes should be carried out and managed by the new European Space Agency ;

to come to an early agreement on participation in and financial contributions to the post-Apollo programme and the European launcher programme.