Web snag for EU telecoms reform 欧盟电信改革

Euro MPs have rejected a far-reaching package of telecoms reforms because they say internet users need better protection from being disconnected.

欧盟MPs驳回了一项远距离的电信改革，他们称有些互联网用户不想被联系上。

The scale of illegal downloads is a big challenge for lawmakers

The MEPs backed an amendment¹（改善，改良） saying web surfers' rights could not be infringed²（破坏，违反） without a ruling by a judicial³ body.

The vote, overwhelmingly in favour, is also seen as a protest against a tough French draft law targeting people who illegally download copyright material.

The "three strikes" bill is still going through the French parliament.

The MEPs' vote in Strasbourg on Wednesday came despite an agreement hammered out earlier with EU ministers.

If EU telecoms ministers accept the MEPs' amendment at a meeting next month they can avoid the "conciliation（安抚，抚慰）" process - the last stage before a piece of legislation is scrapped⁴（废弃）.

Controversial moves

The telecoms package aims to ensure that regulatory measures are harmonised（调和） across the EU and that consumers' rights are protected in the fast-moving digital age.

Operators would be required to make information on tariffs⁵（关税） and contractual（合同的，契约的） terms more transparent⁶.

The controversial French bill would allow internet providers to disconnect people caught downloading music illegally after two previous warnings.

If passed, the bill would set a tough global precedent⁷ in cracking down on internet piracy⁸.

The music industry has been calling for stricter laws as revenues（税收） have fallen.