In a new round of proceedings against possible infringements of EU telecoms rules, the European Commission has closed another 18 cases, including Malta’s, as member States have taken steps to comply with EU rules as required.

Following the publication of a comprehensive directory and a comprehensive inquiry service in the Czech Republic, Greece, Cyprus, Malta and Slovakia, another five pending cases have been closed, the European Commission announced on Friday.

These steps range from enabling national telecoms regulatory authorities to promote competition, to protecting telephone users’ privacy.

At the same time, five new cases have been opened, four of which concern the non-conformity of national “must-carry” rules with the EU “Universal Service” Directive in Belgium (Wallonia and Brussels), the Netherlands and Finland.

In addition, pending proceedings against three member States (Finland, Latvia and Poland) have been carried forward. European Court of Justice proceedings are being brought against Poland and Latvia, for failing to ensure the publication of a comprehensive directory and a comprehensive inquiry service.