EU network neutrality to allow fast streaming

European lawmakers have agreed to a final proposal to scrap mobile phone roaming charges and adopt new rules on online network neutrality.

Roaming fees – the extra charges made for using a mobile phone abroad – will come to an end in June 2017, although customers will still be subject to “fair use” rules when making calls or using data in other countries. As an interim measure from 2016, roaming fees will be capped at five cents per megabyte for mobile data, five cents per minute for calls and two cents per SMS message.

Lawmakers also agreed rules on net neutrality – the principle that internet traffic should be treated equally. However, unlike the stricter rules imposed in the US, the EU measures will allow telecoms groups to offer faster connections for “specialised services” including the streaming live TV – provided they do not hinder other users. Telecoms groups are expected to welcome the concession.