The European Parliament today Wednesday 23rd May is expected to back a key compromise on mobile phone roaming charges that will cap charges on calls made and received abroad.
"This is a piece of good news from Brussels. Mobile phone users should feel the benefits of the single market and not be penalised simply for crossing a border.
"We don't always want to regulate in these matters but the mobile phone operators have had over two years to get their house in order on a self-regulatory basis. Their cynical disregard for their customers has forced us to take action.
"The proposed price cap is not exceptionally low and it will enable competition at even lower prices. If it works, and proper competition is created, then regulation will be discontinued after three years.
"I hope the regulation of voice calls will cause a lowering of charges for data and SMS calls from abroad. The industry has had its wrists slapped once; it would be wise of them to stay out of trouble in future."
