EU legislation set to reduce roaming mobile tariffs

New legislation proposed by the EU this week could mean major savings for business travellers and holiday makers alike. From July next year, mobile roaming tariffs could be capped at a maximum of 80 pence per megabyte. Proposals also include the option to switch provider, enabling customers to tap into other networks and rates, which again could lead to lower charges and greater levels of competition among suppliers.

The proposals come just a few days after the introduction of a cap for receiving international calls. From 1st July, recipients of international calls will now be charged a maximum of 32 pence per call, and just 10 pence per call if located in the EU.

The European Commission, keen to see the disparity between domestic and international call tariffs significantly reduced by 2015, has upheld existing legislation which prevents mobile phone operators from charging more than £45.00 for internet usage overseas. Currently, legislation ensures that only those customers who have expressly requested an extension of the limit will receive a bill higher than the cut off figure.

Nina Kroes, European Vice President for the Digital Agenda, commented that the proposals respond directly to the limited use of data roaming technology in Europe "by giving customers more choice and by giving alternative operators easier access to the roaming market". We agree! At a time when digital technology is proving revolutionary in both the workplace and at home, and the rise of social media is seeing the casting away of traditional societal boundaries, it seems unthinkable that consumer access should be cost prohibitive. Happy surfing!

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