23rd May 2007 - Mobile phone roaming bills cut

Today Members of the European Parliament in Strasbourg voted for new rules to limit the costs of using mobile phones in other EU countries. But what will the limits mean? When will they come into effect? And how long will the new rates be in place? To help local people who are travelling abroad this summer, Yorkshire and the Humber Euro-MP Linda McAvan has produced a brief guide.

Linda McAvan said;

"EU rules will help the millions of Brits heading to the continent again this year, and there has been much discussion in the media about these new limits on the cost of using mobile phones whilst overseas. I think we have put together a good package which could cut bills by half, but for anyone planning to use their mobiles a lot would be well advised to make sure they're getting the best deal. That is why I have put together this guide."

The plans endorsed by MEPs today will introduce a new 'Euro tariff' to limit the cost of making and receiving calls overseas, which should come into affect from mid-August. Mobile users changing networks as they travel will also receive text messages advising them about the cost of calls. However, the cost of text messages and mobile internet access is not covered by the new rules.

Anyone wishing to obtain a copy of Ms McAvan's guide to the new mobile phone roaming charges should click here.