Members of the European Parliament’s Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) adopted a draft report on Thursday 14 October (67 votes in favour, none against, 7 abstentions) advocating the extension of free data roaming within the European Union for a period of 10 years. The current system abolishing roaming charges will expire on 30 June 2022 (see EUROPE 12665/9).
“The ‘roaming at national rates’ system is an unprecedented European success story that shows how we all benefit directly from the single market. [...] With this regulation, we are taking another important step towards a true European digital single market, so that the EU of tomorrow will be successful, strong and efficient”, said rapporteur Angelika Winzig (EPP, Austria).
The legislation aims to ensure that roaming providers are obliged to offer similar conditions throughout the EU to those offered at national level.
Emergency services would also be available to travellers free of charge, without distinction between calls and SMS. This also includes the transmission of the caller’s location information.
In addition, MEPs propose to put an end to premium rate calls between two EU countries. However, additional costs will be allowed, provided that they are objectively justified by the supplier.
The new rules will have to be agreed between the Parliament and the Council of the EU before they can enter into force. The latter adopted its negotiating mandate on 16 June (see EUROPE 12742/18). (Original version in French by Thomas Mangin)