EU telecoms chief gets backing for reform package

The European Union Commission has approved a plan to spur investment in communications networks and create a single market for telecoms services despite concerns that some parts may favor big operators.

The commission's telecoms chief Neelie Kroes will present the reforms, which are part of an effort to help Europe catch up with Asia and North America in mobile and fast-speed network infrastructure. As expected, it will include measures aimed at phasing out roaming charges, improving consumer protections in telecom contracts, and making mobile spectrum auctions more consistent in the region, among other elements. But the package will likely evolve - and be subject to intense lobbying - as it winds it way through the legislative process. The region's 28 countries and European Parliament must sign off before it becomes law.