In June, politicians in the US decided not to put into law the principle that all bits on the internet should be treated equally. This may not sound so important – but it is laying the foundations for a 2 speed internet that could forever lose the first amendment of Internet Neutrality. Telecommunications (telcos) firms could create a two-speed internet, where websites are charged extra for receiving a priority service – hence making it impossible for individuals to get the same visibility as huge corporations which is one of the key aspects of the web right now . This two-tier system risks killing off the level playing field where anyone can set up a site and get the world to view it – artists and businesses alike.

In the US a lobbying group has been set up at which is hoping to put rules into place before this becomes an issue. Its also doing a great job of highlighting the murky world of corporate lobbying and exposing those whose interests will be served by such a change. I suggest we all watch this space –at least while we can still afford to…