The European Commission has issued a Communication setting out a road map for the future growth of cloud computing in Europe. The Communication is a strange mix: in parts, an extended advert for the benefits of a digital single market in the EU, and a narrative on the benefits of cloud computing.

But the most interesting aspect of the Communication is the regulatory agenda that the Commission proposes in order to “…unleash the potential of cloud computing in Europe”. Sceptical observers may question whether the proposed package of extra regulation, certification and contractual limitations is more likely to slow down – not speed up – the implementation of cloud computing across Europe.