EC unveils plans to slash mobile phone roaming charges

The European Commission has announced proposals that would force mobile phone firms to slash so-called roaming charges by up to 70%.

At present, mobile users face charges up to five times higher than normal when they use their handsets while abroad.

EU Telecoms Commissioner had initially planned to abolish roaming charges altogether, but this was abandoned due to opposition from some commissioners, including Ireland's Charlie McCreevy.

These critics claimed the move would have unfavourable economic impacts on the telecoms sector.

The proposals announced today must still be approved by EU member states and the European Parliaments.