US, UK and Canada may snub UN internet treaty

Internet safety organisations have long warned children about the dangers (Rex Features)

The chief American delegate at a UN conference weighing possible Internet rules says the US may snub the final document over proposals interpreted as giving governments greater oversight over the Web.

Ambassador Terry Kramer says references that governments have a right to control the Internet are unacceptable. He told delegates that the US will not sign the final treaty unless revisions are made.

A Western bloc, including the US, UK and Canada, has strongly resisted any UN telecoms rules on the internet, fearing it could be used to justify further limits on cyberspace.

Rival countries, including Iran and China, apparently have the upper hand in efforts to get UN backing for government rights over Internet affairs.

The final document at the UN's International Telecommunications Union will reach delegates on Friday.

AP