"cheaper texting from abroad is good news for holiday-makers this summer"

Labour’s European candidates in the East of England and Labour's Minister for Europe Caroline Flint have welcomed the EU agreement which will see people in the region getting cheaper texts while abroad.

The legislation, which was approved by the European Parliament, sets a maximum price for sending a text message from Europe at €0.11 (10p), compared to the current EU average of €0.29 (26p). The new rules also ensure mobile phone operators have to provide clearer information on the cost of surfing the net and downloading data on a mobile phone when abroad.

 Labour's European Candidates in the East of England: (l-r) Sherma Batson; Richard Howitt MEP; Beth Kelly; James Valentine; Chris Ostrowski

Richard Howitt, Labour MEP for the East of England, said:

"This is great news for those holidaying in Europe this summer, since we all know the large amounts phone companies have been charging us to text home to our families and friends while abroad.

"It’s only fair that people are able to keep in touch for a fair price with those at home whilst on holidays or traveling for business in Europe.

"This new announcement will halve the cost of texting home from Europe for holiday makers."

Labour’s Europe Minister Caroline Flint MP said:

"This shows how the EU can have a positive practical benefit to our everyday lives.

"With people feeling the pinch and worrying about whether they can afford a foreign holiday in Europe this Summer, this is another way of putting that little bit more money back in their pocket.

"I know it is something Richard Howitt has long supported and is keen to highlight to the people in the East of England"

"Labour MEPs are working hard to make sure Europe delivers the best deal for people in Britain, in contrast to Tory policies, which would leave our country isolated on the sidelines."