MPs lift net surf ban during debates

MPs will be allowed to surf the internet in the National Assembly debating chamber, it has been agreed.

A group of MPs from both all parties has lifted the ban – enforced by an electronic block in the chamber.

The ruling will put an end to what opponents called “a French exception.”

UMP Party MP Thierry Mariani, who tabled an amendment to the rules, recently said: “We are one of the only parliaments in the world without the right to use the internet during debates.”

It was only last year that Assembly President Bernard Accoyer allowed MPs to use their laptops in the chamber, but he refused to let them use the internet.

It was electronically blocked at the entrance to the room and they could only use it in their offices or in the library.

Mr Accoyer had said permitting its use could result in last-minute lobbying over the internet at the moment of votes.

Mr Mariani said MPs are in any case “subject to daily pressure from lobbies before laws are debated,” and they had the right to “be informed” using the internet.

The decision comes as MPs narrowly voted through the Hadopi law, cracking down on internet piracy. It is expected to be finalised in the Senate today.

Under the law those found to have made illegal downloads will be warned by email and if they continue they will have their internet connection cut off for a period, though they will have to continue to pay their subscription fees.