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Telecoms Promise 5G Networks If EU Cripples Net Neutrality (theverge.com)

Posted by EditorDavid on from the innovation-at-a-price dept.

An anonymous reader quotes The Verge: A group of 20 major telcos including Deutsche Telekom, Nokia, Vodafone, and BT promise to launch 5G networks in every country in the European Union by 2020 -- so long as governments decide to weaken net neutrality rules. The coalition's plans are outlined in its "5G Manifesto," a seven-page document that details how the companies will roll 5G out across the continent over the next few years. However, by warning against regulation that would ensure an open internet and encouraging nations to water rules down, the companies are effectively holding the new technology for ransom... "The EU must reconcile the need for open Internet with pragmatic rules that foster innovation," reads the manifesto. "The telecom industry warns that current net neutrality guidelines, as put forward by [the Body of European Regulators], create significant uncertainties around 5G return on investment..."
The EU is asking the public to share their feedback on the manifesto.

4 of 194 comments (clear)

  1. Oh this is cute. by Pig+Hogger · · Score: 5, Insightful

    Now, if the EU had any balls, it should pull the licences from those operators and give it to those who would not blackmail them. Or, better yet, promise anti-neutrality rules for AFTER the 5G network is up, then tell them to fuck-off.

  2. How is that legal? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Insightful

    Isn't this going to run into all kinds of anti-trust law? How can this group of companies get together and agree on something like this? Isn't this a hilarious level of collusion?

  3. Re:What's bad for the telcos by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Insightful

    If the telcos don't want it, it must be good for the consumer.

    That sentiment applies to all big business these days. Whenever a business wants regulations changed (usually with the excuse of "helping the consumer"; which is always bullshit), I always try to figure out it benefits them - and how it usually hurts the little guy. I am called cynical - but I'm always right.

    I am now under the opinion that it's best and safest to reject business' desires just because they want it. Like my opinion of the TPP.

    Big biz REALLY wants it and it's filled with so much legal jargon that I cannot understand. Therefore; it is prudent to be against it.

  4. Re:Collusion? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Insightful

    More than laws it has rules. You know the Golden Rule, those with the gold make the rules.