I also got a reply from another of the MEP's I contacted this reply is a bit more encouraging as he does seem to know what he's talking about, but there is another round of voting to go yet, I have also signed up to his weekly newsletter so hopefully he can keep me up to date on what is happening with this issue.
I have only received replies from two of the MEP's I wrote to the other six have not replied yet
Here's the latest reply from "Graham Watson MEP
Member of the European Parliament for South West England and Gibraltar and Leader of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe in the European Parliament"...... GOD DON'T THEY LIKE THEIR TITLES!
Dear Michael,
Thank you for your recent email regarding the 'telecoms package'.
At the end of last month the Industry and Energy Committee voted in favour of the common regulatory framework for electronic communications networks and service. The package contains four reports on the reform of the regulatory framework for electronic communications- including mobile and fixed telephones, broadcasting and the internet. This includes a report concerning internet use which has proved controversial and to which you refer.
I am pleased to inform you that the committee voted to ensure that no restrictions were imposed on the fundamental rights and freedoms of internet users, without a prior ruling by the judicial authorities.
More broadly the package will also enhance competition and ensure that all market players have sufficient incentives to invest in infrastructure and services for consumers.
This report will now go forward to the Council of Ministers for their decision. While the European Parliament has voted to protect the rights of internet users, there is a risk that the amendments will get voted down by the Council.
France has been championing the three-strikes legislations and is likely to block these developments. I am aware that the UK along with France is pushing strongly to change the wording agreed by the Parliament. This action will delay the progress of the report and put at risk the many important aspects in this package which will increase competition and boost jobs. I therefore urge you to raise your concerns with the UK Government and ask them to support the article which ensures that an internet cut-off can only be imposed after approval from a competent legal authority.
The internet plays an important role within society, both socially and economically. It provides a space for communication, to access information, for technological development and for economic activity.
I hope that this provides you with clarification. Thank you for contacting me on this matter and if I can be of any assistance in the future, please do not hesitate to contact me.
In view of your interest in how I might be able to help you, it occurs to me that you might like to receive my weekly email newsletter providing news and my views on EU developments. If so, please let me know and I will add your email address to my distribution list.
Yours sincerely,
Graham Watson MEP
Member of the European Parliament for South West England and Gibraltar and Leader of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe in the European Parliament