UK ISPs to adopt voluntary net neutrality transparency code
updated 09:35 pm EST, Thu March 10, 2011
Companies to be clear on restrictions
Most Internet providers in the UK are reportedly ready to adopt a set of principles that aims to ensure transparency surrounding throttling and other traffic management systems. The UK government think-tank Broadband Stakeholders Group (BSG) suggests the large majority, if not all, of the country's ISPs will agree to the proposal.
The terms are said to be a reaction to a net neutrality consultation by Ofcom UK, which noted transparency as a primary goal, according to a ISPreview report. The UK government and European Commission have also stressed the importance of transparency for traffic management techniques, along with continued availability of "legal content and services."
Despite the apparent consensus regarding transparency, it remains unclear if the groups are also working to develop an agreement on net neutrality terms. A transparency code is expected to shed light on companies' traffic management terms, though it may not establish any specific rules for details such as throttling based on various content or services.
