Mobile providers face clampdown over free calls

NEW rules should allow free calls on mobile phones to become much easier in the future, with strict limits on mobile internet operators who try to block them.

Slow internet speeds, blocking sites such as VOIP (voice over internet protocol) and delaying delivery of emails must stop, the European Commission is expected to warn tomorrow.

The net must remain neutral and open to all consumers and practices where citizens and businesses are manipulated by unfair competition practices will be outlawed if necessary, the digital agenda Commissioner Neelie Kroes is expected to say.