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The UK calls internet access a 'legal right' like water and power.
The week after the Federal Communications Commission nixed net neutrality rules in the United States, the United Kingdom decided that all 65 million of its inhabitants have a "legal right" to fast, reliable internet connectivity. 

The UK's Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport announced the decision on Dec. 20, noting that the government will require internet providers to give "everyone access to high speed broadband by 2020" — much like an electric or water utility. 

"We know how important broadband is to homes and businesses and we want everyone to benefit from a fast and reliable connection," Culture Secretary Karen Bradley said in a statement. "This is all part of our work on ensuring that Britain’s telecoms infrastructure is fit for the future and will continue to deliver the connectivity that consumers need in the digital age."

SEE ALSO: The net neutrality vote, explained