TalkTalk Broadband
HomeBroadbandMobile BroadbandBroadband BundlesBusiness BroadbandProvidersNewsGuides
You are here:  Home » News » EU debates making home broadband a universal right

EU debates making home broadband a universal right

Tuesday, March 2nd 2010
Ongoing debates in the EU could see home broadband become a universal right.
EU debates making home broadband a universal right
The European Union (EU) has opened debate on whether home broadband should be a universal right throughout its jurisdictions.

Deutsche Presse-Agentur has reported that this is hoped to allow the EU to stand up to Asia's high-tech market for online products.

At present, it requires that dial-up internet and telephone access be available publically to all members as part of its universal service obligation, but it is considering revising the terms of this to include broadband.

If these changes are enacted, this will result in broadband internet being redefined as a universal service.

Another key issue the press agency identifies is whether the government or telecoms firms should fund this change.

This debate follows the government's announcement that it aims to give access to broadband to an additional 7.5 million people by 2014, reducing the number of those without home broadband by 60 per cent in four years.

Digital Britain minister Stephen Timms highlighted the importance of being online, suggesting it is crucial for participation in 21st century society.

Related Stories

Former RiPWiRE broadband customers are set to be moved to the Ask4 network.
A survey created by Wokingham Chamber of Commerce is designed to highlight communities struggling with low-quality broadband.
The third HYLAS broadband satellite will be launched by Avanti, in partnership with the European Space Agency.
The IXLeeds internet exchange point will be officially launched on February 16th.
A questionnaire has been launched by a group of south-west councils to assess demand for faster broadband in the region.
The government's decision to award £10 million of broadband funding to Kent has been praised by the county council.

Add a comment

Comment
Your name
Your e-mail address

Comments (0)

Postcode checker
Compare broadband packages in your area
Postcode

News Categories

3 (78)
AOL (4)
Be (31)
BT (311)
O2 (85)
Orange (64)
Plusnet (24)
Sky (62)

News Archives

July 2010 (110)
Home  |  Guides  |  Links  |  Sitemap  |  Privacy Policy  |  Terms
Copyright © 2005-2012 Broadbandchoice.co.uk. All rights reserved.