Brussels hardens stance on equal access to internet

Unrestrained access to the internet for companies such as Skype and Google would be guaranteed by law under far reaching “network neutrality” plans by Europe’s top technology regulator. Proposals tabled on June 4 aim to stamp out anti-competitive blocking or “throttling” of services and content by internet providers, as well as ensure greater transparency and choice for consumers.

The European Commission estimates that about 100m Europeans have suffered restrictions on internet usage, such as the blocking of free chat apps like Skype or WhatsApp by companies that offer rival services. Internet service providers, including the region’s largest telecoms groups, would be forced to provide equal access for even the heaviest web content suppliers as well as provide transparency to customers over broadband speeds and prices. “The commission is 100 per cent committed to the open internet,” said Neelie Kroes, EU commissioner for telecoms. “Anti-competitive blocking needs to end. I think it’s unsustainable and on the way out, but I am willing to push it out.”