Electronic communications: universal service, users' rights relating to networks and services, processing of personal data, protection of privacy, consumer protection cooperation. 'Telecoms Package'

2007/0248(COD)

The amended proposal adapts the original proposal on a number of points as suggested by the European Parliament.

It is recalled that this legislative proposal covers changes to the Universal Service Directive and the Directive on privacy and electronic communications. The aim is to adapt the regulatory framework for electronic communications by strengthening certain consumer and user rights and by ensuring that electronic communications are trustworthy, secure and reliable and provide a high level of protection for individuals’ privacy and personal data.

More specifically, the objectives of the present proposals are two-fold:

  • strengthening and improving consumer protection and user rights in the electronic communications sector, by — among other aspects — giving consumers more information about prices and supply conditions, and facilitating access to and use of e-communications, including emergency services, for disabled end-users;
  • enhancing the protection of individuals’ privacy and personal data in the electronic communications sector, in particular through strengthened security-related provisions and improved enforcement mechanisms.

The European Parliament adopted 155 amendments at 1st reading on 24 September 2008. In its amended proposal, the Commission accepts 58 amendments in their entirety. It accepts 50 in part or subject to rewording.

It should be noted that it was not able to accept 56 amendments.