By Kate Hanaghan, 12 July 2001 17:29
NEWS The Direct Marketing Association and industry experts have welcomed a decision by a European committee to continue to offer members a choice of 'opt-in' or 'opt-out' spamming systems.
The EU is currently considering far-reaching regulations to curb the antics of online direct marketers.
The European Civil Liberties committee yesterday approved a report that supports the maintenance of giving members a choice over what system they use.
Lara Shannon, spokeswoman for the DMA lent her support to the suggestion, but made it plain what her members would prefers.
She said: "We are not against opt-in but we believe it doesn't stop spam. Under the opt-in only system the UK would be on a back foot and out of the business game globally."
Mike Pullen, a partner at law firm DLA, also supported the move but explained it is only a short term solution.
A final decision before the legislation goes through is due to be made by the end of the year.
However, MEP and chairman of the Citizens' Rights and Freedoms, Justice and Home Affairs Committee Graham Watson remains a fervent supporter of the opt-in system.
He issued a statement saying: "These emails are both a damn nuisance and a cost. Unless the internet is cleaned up and made secure for consumers and businesses, electronic commerce cannot thrive. I will be voting to outlaw junk emails."
Under the EU's proposed 'opt-in' system firms would only be able to contact consumers if they have received their express permission. Currently a marketeer is free to email you unless you have expressly told it not to.
For a more detailed explanation of the concept of opt in/opt out, click here (http://www.silicon.com/a45708 ) to read today's leader.
For related news, see
Europe demands global crackdown on spam
http://www.silicon.com/a45673
Users love affair with email starts to wane
http://www.silicon.com/a45159
News service makes headlines with accidental spam attack
http://www.silicon.com/a44273
Political spam threat looms
http://www.silicon.com/a43068
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