Brussels, 30th June - A deal has been reached to phase out data roaming charges across Europe within two years
The agreement means that as of June 15, 2017, consumers will pay the same price for calls, texts and mobile data irrespective of whether they are in their home nation or travelling in the EU.
“This makes us more competitive and is good news for consumers, businesses and Britain. It removes yet another barrier to a true single digital market in Europe,” said Daniel Dalton, MEP for the West Midlands.
“Conservatives in the European Parliament have continually pushed this agenda and I am delighted there is finally a date to end this outdated and unfair business practice that so many people have wanted gone."
"This should eliminate the horrible prospect of returning from holiday with a bill you can't afford. Roaming charges currently teach us all to switch off our mobiles as soon as we step off a plane. If we are not afraid of our bills we won't be afraid of using our devices abroad. This means more opportunities for online businesses to provide services to travellers in the EU."
The agreement also features Net Neutrality provisions. This means telecoms operators have to treat all internet traffic equally and that blocking would only be allowed for clear reasons, such as counter cyber-attacks or child pornography. This should benefit small companies as the service providers can no longer give priority to the multi-nationals.
The agreement has to be ratified by ministers and the European Parliament.