News
Price of holiday calls to fall
13 July 2006
The cost of using a mobile phone on holiday in Europe is set to fall by 70%, following proposals from the European Commission (EC)
Research by the EC showed roaming rates affect 147m EU citizens a year including 37m tourists and cost around £6 billion a year.
By crossing a border, it was found call prices can shoot up by as much as nine times.
However, under the new rules maximum call charges for Brits phoning phone should be 34p per minute and to call a local number while away should cost no more than 23p.
Receiving a call while on holiday in the EU should cost a maximum 11p per minute.
Information society and media commissioner Viviane Reding said: 'For years, mobile roaming charges have remained at unjustifiably high levels, in spite of repeated warnings to the industry.
'This is why Europe needs to act now. I am convinced that reducing roaming charges will not only be beneficial for citizens travelling within the EU, but will also enhance the competitiveness of Europe's industry.'
The mobile operators are also being called on to be transparent with their charges, so those heading abroad and planning to use their phones know exactly how much they will be charged.
The changes should come into effect by summer 2007 although some mobile phone operators are already lowering their roaming charges.
© Adfero Ltd
Research by the EC showed roaming rates affect 147m EU citizens a year including 37m tourists and cost around £6 billion a year.
By crossing a border, it was found call prices can shoot up by as much as nine times.
However, under the new rules maximum call charges for Brits phoning phone should be 34p per minute and to call a local number while away should cost no more than 23p.
Receiving a call while on holiday in the EU should cost a maximum 11p per minute.
Information society and media commissioner Viviane Reding said: 'For years, mobile roaming charges have remained at unjustifiably high levels, in spite of repeated warnings to the industry.
'This is why Europe needs to act now. I am convinced that reducing roaming charges will not only be beneficial for citizens travelling within the EU, but will also enhance the competitiveness of Europe's industry.'
The mobile operators are also being called on to be transparent with their charges, so those heading abroad and planning to use their phones know exactly how much they will be charged.
The changes should come into effect by summer 2007 although some mobile phone operators are already lowering their roaming charges.
© Adfero Ltd
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