Following the recent events that involved whistle blower Edward Snowden leak surveillance details of the United States to the entire world, the European Parliament has now voted to conduct an “in-depth” inquiry into the scope and nature of the USA’s internet spying programs, reports The Hill. The group will assess the impact of surveillance activities like PRISM, collect information and evidence both in the EU and US, and present its findings in a resolution by the end of the year. The vote overwhelmingly supported the inquiry, with 483 in favor to 98 against and 65 abstentions.
MPs expressed “severe concern”
In-case the US programs are found to be unlawful, the lawmakers recommended applying direct diplomatic pressure, up to suspending ongoing air travel and bank data negotiations. But their spying concerns aren’t just limited to overseas. The Parliament’s official site notes that MPs expressed “severe concern” about reports of similar spying programs in use by countries like the UK, Sweden, and
Germany. Earlier today, we learned that France is also operating a similar system.
Via
The Hill
Source
Europa.eu
