Roaming charges will be eliminated across the EU from next year - but not for Manx phone users.

The move was voted through last week by 27 European Commissioners and means from July 2014 the extra costs will be scrapped.

But Island phone companies don't fall under the enforcement ruling, which means texting or calling when abroad won't become cheaper.

The EU proposals intend to create a single EU telecommunications market.

The legislation means calls and texts cost no more abroad than they would if you were at home.

That, though, doesn't apply to the Isle of Man as we aren't in the EU.

It means Manx mobile companies won't be required to scrap the roaming charges.