1 June 2006

European Union plans to increase regulation of audio-visual content on the Internet have been criticised by a number of organisations.

The EU is planning to introduce new regulation as part of the TV Without Frontiers (TVWF) directive that would extend traditional broadcasting legislation to cover any audio or visual content available over the Internet.

However, seven organisations representing around 500,000 businesses based in Denmark, Germany, Holland, Hungary, Luxembourg, Switzerland and the UK have raised concerns that the EU regulation could threaten jobs and decrease competition with other non-European providers.

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) believes that the regulation could lead to increased red tape and force many Internet companies to abandon adventurous development plans that take advantage of the wider scope of online technology.

John Cridland, CBI deputy director-general, said: "Business is finding innovative ways of communicating and engaging with customers. We should not stifle the creativity that helps keep Europe's business one step ahead of the competition."

He added: "As drafted, this onerous directive will stifle economic growth, inhibit job creation and hamper the development of digital content and services across the EU."

© Adfero Ltd

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