Government encourages
Internet Providers to be transparent in the way they manage online
traffic
Governments should
do all they can to secure an open, transparent internet, avoid
regulation and encourage competition, Communications Minister Ed
Vaizey said today.
During a speech at The FT World Telecoms Conference, the minister
set out the government’s position on net neutrality.
There has been a debate in many countries around net neutrality,
which refers to the extent internet traffic should be managed.
Mr Vaizey said:
“The internet has been responsible for an unprecedented level of
innovation, which has led to multi billion dollar companies being
formed in just a couple of years.
“This is a model that the British government wishes to protect. A
lightly regulated internet is good for business, good for the
economy, and good for people.”
The minister said the government would take into account three
factors before considering any proposals. They are:
Openness – consumers should be able to access any legal content
or service. Content providers should be able to innovate and reach
users.
Transparency – providers should set out in detail the extent of
their traffic management and the impact on customers.
Support for innovation and investment – ISPs should be able to
manage their networks to ensure a good service and have
flexibility in business models. Competition is important for
ensuring continued openness and choice.
Mr Vaizey said:
“The government is no fan of regulation and we should only
intervene when it is clearly necessary to deliver important
benefits for consumers.”
Notes to Editors
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