26/06/2001 (Agence Europe) - On the eve of the Research Council, the European Association of Craft, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (UEAPME) noted, in a press release, that the proposed 6th Framework Programme for Research and Development (FPRD) provides for 15% of funds to be directed towards the SME (instead of 10% in the 5th FPRD). It is concerned, however, about the destination of such funding and appeals to the Council so that high tech companies do not become the only beneficiaries.