Three more UK internet service providers (ISPs) have shown their support for Net Neutrality plans by signing the Broadband Stakeholder Group's (BSG) voluntary code, it has been revealed.
EE, Virgin Media and Vodafone were the last hold outs following BT, BSkyB, KCOM, giffgaff, O2, Plusnet, TalkTalk, Tesco Mobile and Three all signing the Code of Practice in support of the Open Internet. As a result, all of the UK's leading ISPs have now backed Net Neutrality.
Matthew Evans, BSG CEO, said: "Unlike some countries where net neutrality has become a controversial topic for discussion, the UK benefits from a fiercely competitive market and high levels of transparency which together offer the best assurance of an Open Internet.
"The Code now provides an even stronger and more effective foundation, whilst also allowing for an environment where new business models for internet-based services which benefit consumer choice can thrive."
The code was first launched in 2012 by the BSG and, by signing, the ISPs are agreeing to conditions that include ensuring users can access all legal content, not discriminating against content providers for commercial reasons and remaining transparent about traffic management policies.
"The Code usefully supports open access to the internet and builds on previous commitments by ISPs to provide transparent information to consumers about their traffic management policies," Chair of the Communications Consumer Panel, Jo Connell, added.
"We are delighted that EE, Virgin and Vodafone have now agreed to become signatories. The Code has gained significant interest internationally as a positive example of industry responding to a developing consumer need."
