EU: Telecom deregulation good for consumer

Telecommunication reforms have led to better services and cheaper prices in Europe, the European Union reported Thursday.

The EU said that reforms in services of general economic interest such as air transport and postal services as well as telecommunications "have produced clear benefits for European consumers in terms of lower prices, choice, and better services."

At the same time, the EU pointed out that progress in deregulation still remains slow and obstacles to ensure market competition remain.

It also stated that "increasing competition in these industries is also key for the member states that joined in 2004 in order to avoid any inflationary pressures resulting from the catching-up process."

Copyright 2005 by United Press International