While network operators across Europe could charge roaming rates of €0.19 and €0.05 per minute of outgoing and incoming calls, €0.06 per text and €0.20 per MB of internet data consumed, they will now be allowed to charge roaming rates at just €0.05 per minute of calling, €0.02 per text and €0.05 per MB of internet data consumed.

The whole lot will be gone by June 2017.

The move to abolish roaming rates across 28 member states of the European Union in a phased manner was upheld by the European Union parliament in June of last year. The cut that took effect yesterday was the second among a series of measures being implemented in a phased manner to abolish roaming rates.

The move was to eliminate Bill Shock for consumers when ‘roaming' in Europe and is a massive win for consumers who travel frequently. Of course it is possible that the mobile phone companies might move to protect the profits they made from overcharging on roaming by jacking up the basic fees.

Of course if the UK leaves the EU its citizens will not be protected any more and will have to pay roaming at what ever its regulator can re-negotiate with the telcos.