Brussels, 19/09/2006 (Agence Europe) - The European Commission has just launched a second consultation on the new State aid framework for research. In order to lighten the State aid control system in this sector, the Commission suggests extending the scope of block exemption in favour of research and development which is currently limited to SMEs. The new general block exemption regulation is expected to cover all the least problematical aid measures, irrespective of the beneficiary. In future, aid intensity may reach 100% of the eligible cost for fundamental research. For industrial research, it will be variable: 50% for large firms, 60% for medium-sized firms and 65% for small firms. These figures may be stepped up in the case, for example, of cross-border cooperation. However, the biggest innovation lies in extension of the subsidy system for innovation. In future, SMEs may receive aid for using innovation advisory services (up to €200,000) or for the temporary employment of highly qualified staff. Finally, aid for the functioning and organisation of innovation poles will also be foreseen in this new framework that the Commission hopes to adopt by the end of the year.