UK ISP and Mobile Networks Snub Net Neutrality Pledge 51
nk497 writes "UK ISP Virgin Media and two of the largest mobile networks, Everything Everywhere and Vodafone, are among the high-profile absentees from a new voluntary code of conduct on net neutrality, set to be unveiled tomorrow. The code requires those who sign it to give users access to all legal content and not to discriminate against content providers on the basis of a commercial rivalry — but Virgin has refused to sign because it isn't tough enough. 'These principles remain open to misinterpretation and potential exploitation so, while we welcome efforts to reach a broad consensus to address potential future issues, we will be seeking greater certainty before we consider signing,' a company spokesman said."
Re:The reason Virgin won't sign... (Score:5, Informative)
Virgin Media isn't owned by Sky - Sky Broadcasting is one of their main competitors. Virgin Media was created through mergers of NTL, Telewest, and Virgin Mobile. The also co-owned UKTV, along with BBC Worldwide, but I think they sold their share in it last year.
Re:The reason Virgin won't sign... (Score:5, Informative)
That's a division of Virgin Media relating to a few TV channels that they didn't jointly own with the BBC - they wanted out of that business so they sold them to Sky. Nothing to do with their cable network and nothing to do with owning the parent company.
There isn't a chance in hell that Sky would be allowed to own Virgin Media (or vice versa).
Re:Whups (Score:4, Informative)
What is it you don't understand here?
The code says that they will not discriminate between types of legal traffic.
Nothing about the agreement requires them to monitor or block any traffic at all, sure it leaves them the option, but it doesn't require it. It requires that they don't block legit traffic.
Re:Virgin dont have a network (Score:2, Informative)
Virgin Mobile are a separate entity.
Re:Whups (Score:4, Informative)
You could do nothing at all, which is fully in line with this agreement.