Phone block plans may breach EU rules

Date: 19/09/02

By Peter Chapman

Such technology already exists to block out mobile phone signals, but Telecoms Commissioner Erkki Liikanen has warned that any bid to prevent GSM handsets from receiving messages could breach EU rules governing free movement of services and a directive that bans interference in radio waves allocated to mobile phone services.

His officials are currently poring over the laws to see what, if anything, can be done to tackle a nuisance which affects the enjoyment of thousands at public events.

The move comes as some member states - led by France - prepare to overturn domestic bans on the equipment to clamp-down on noisy and annoying ring tones.

Efforts by Member States to clear the way for the installation of hi-tech devices in theatres, concert halls and cinemas to prevent mobile phones going off could breach EU rules.