The negotiations on the new financial framework for the EU 2007-2013 are burdened with large differences in national interests. On the one hand the EU entry of countries with substantial economic backwardness puts the EU budget under stress. On the other hand the traditional net payers are today in a difficult budgetary situation. This study is to develop and assess reform options for the new financial planning period. Light will be shed on the financial consequences of different assumptions with regard to the size of the budget. In addition, the analysis will also explore the consequences of varying the composition of own resources and shifting expenditure priorities.