EU backs internet access restrictions for pirates

The EU has paved the way for more three-strikes legislation across Europe, after dropping an amendment to its telecoms bill ruling that internet access was a fundamental right. Now the proposed legislation allows internet access restrictions when “necessary and proportionate”, and only after a “fair and impartial procedure” in which the accused gets a chance to have their say. The telecoms package will now go up for a vote, having been delayed by the disagreement around this issue. However, it’s not a guarantee of a wave of three-strikes laws – the Spanish government has already confirmed that it is not planning any such measures.