My issue has more to do with the need for a strong pro-R & D message, encouraging R & D policy and investment. The program already exists with all its benefits and drawbacks—I must admit that I am not that familiar with them—especially in terms of eligibility criteria, which I feel are very restrictive for SMEs given all the paperwork involved. You may see that as merely a detail, but it changes things. The result is that many companies cannot access these credits. Even when they try, the drawbacks ultimately prevent some companies from achieving the desired outcome. I don't think I am telling you anything you don't already know by saying we need to invest much more heavily in innovation in order to move beyond the barriers to competition we currently face and will continue to face tomorrow, the day after and well into the future.
On October 5th, 2011. See this statement in context.