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FCC stops closed-door Internet policy meetings amid criticism
Under criticism for its handing of closed-door discussions with certain companies on broadband policy, the Federal Communications Commission announced Thursday it has stopped its series of meetings with AT&T, Verizon, Google and Skype on how con... tent is managed over networks.
The announcement comes amid an apparent agreement between Verizon and Google on so-called net neutrality ground rules that would allow certain prioritization of Web sites on fixed wire networks and no rules on wireless networks.
The agency has been holding the meetings to reach a consensus among giant telecom, cable, and Internet content firms on how carriers can manage traffic in a way that doesn't unfairly squash competition by slowing access to some Web sites over others.
"We have called off this round of stakeholder discussions," said Eddie Lazarus, the chief of staff to the chairman of the FCC. "It has been productive on several fronts, but has not generated a robust framework to preserve the openness and freedom of the Internet ¿ one that drives innovation, investment, free speech, and consumer choice. All options remain on the table as we continue to seek broad input on this vital issue."
As reported, the agency has had more than seven sessions of meetings with those companies.
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