General Affairs Council, 25/04/2017 - Main results - Hoofdinhoud
End of roaming charges and 700 MHz frequency band for mobile broadband
The Council also adopted two major legal acts in the area of telecommunications.
The Council's go-ahead for wholesale roaming reform is the final step to end mobile roaming charges in the EU on 15 June 2017.
"Today's final vote in the Council clears the path for free roaming. When Europeans go on holiday this summer, they can enjoy the freedom of being able to stay in touch and use the internet as if they were at home."
Emmanuel Mallia, the Maltese Minister for Competitiveness and Digital, Maritime and Services Economy
The Council also adopted a decision on opening the 700 MHz frequency band for wireless broadband services in all EU countries. The coordinated use of this high-quality spectrum range will boost mobile connectivity and drive the roll-out of 5G technology.
Control of firearms
The Council adopted a directive tightening the rules on the acquisition and possession of weapons. The new directive enhances the traceability of firearms, bans the civilian use of the most dangerous semi-automatic firearms and improves information sharing between EU countries.
Meeting information
Meeting n°3531
Luxembourg
25/04/2017
10:00
Preparatory documents
Indicative programme - General Affairs Council (Cohesion) of 25 April 2017
Outcome of the Council meeting
Provisional agenda, General Affairs Council, 25 April 2017
List of A items, legislative deliberations, General Affairs Council, 25 April 2017
Corrigendum 1 to list of A items, legislative deliberations, General Affairs Council, 25 April 2017
List of A items, non-legislative activities, General Affairs Council, 25 April 2017
Outcome documents
Press releases
United Nations strategic plan for forests: Council conclusions
25/04/2017, 12:00
EU strengthens control of the acquisition and possession of firearms
25/04/2017, 11:30
Protecting citizens from mercury pollution
25/04/2017, 11:20
North Sea plan for fisheries: Council ready to negotiate with the EP
25/04/2017, 11:10
EU all set for free roaming from June
25/04/2017, 11:05
EU coordinates key spectrum to boost connectivity in run-up to 5G
25/04/2017, 11:05
Council adopts new rules to better protect EU finances
25/04/2017, 11:00
Better data on fisheries: Council adopts improved EU rules
24/04/2017, 11:10
Press information
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