In reaction to recent Telecoms Council meetings, the GSMA demands the European Commission (EC) accelerates work on the broader reform of EU electronic communications regulatory framework.
Currently the European Parliament proposes traffic management should be restricted to a "very narrow set of circumstances," which the GSMA says constrains the development of new services, limits consumer choice and restricts the way operators ensure the internet continues to works.
In other words the GSMA says net neutrality is actually something of a hindrance for mobile providers.
Furthermore according to the organisation reform should bring further harmonisation across EU member states, eliminate outdated and unnecessary regulation and present consistent rules irrespective of technology in use.
“We urge Member States to work with the Parliament and the Commission to agree provisions on the open Internet that work for consumers, businesses and the whole European economy,” the GSMA says. “With regard to traffic management and specialised services, it is important to establish high level and future proof principles rather than develop detailed and prescriptive rules that limit innovation, curb commercial flexibility and consign consumers and potential developers of new services to the same, regulated Internet experience.”
Also proposed is further harmonisation and coordination of spectrum policy as means to address the currently fragmented and inconsistent approach across the EU, as well as the assessment of the impact of roaming regulation change ahead of eventual review on 2016.
“The immediate priority is to ensure that the proposed Telecoms Single Market Regulation on the open Internet, spectrum and roaming is adjusted in the interests of Europe’s citizens, its businesses and growth across the region,” the GSMA concludes. “However we must not lose sight of the need to prepare further ambitious and bold policy and regulatory reform to maximise the telecoms industry’s contribution to Europe’s economy and society.”
