U.K. lawmakers are considering a ban on unsolicited direct marketing via e-mail, SMS wireless and telephone, prompted by spam.
Proposals mesh with the European Directive on Privacy and Electronic Communications, which takes effect in October. If adopted, the law would require marketers to get opt-in consent for e-mail and wireless messaging, and let consumers decide whether or not to be listed in subscriber directories.
Lawmakers are expected to debate the issue for three months. The British Direct Marketing Association is concerned that restrictions could put U.K. marketers at a disadvantage against competitors from other countries.