The Chinese government's decision to postpone further restrictions on internet use has been greeted with relief both in China and abroad. The Green Dam Youth Escort internet filter was set to be a compulsory addition to all new computers in China from Wednesday.

The authorities in Beijing say the filter is designed protect children from pornography, but many people suspect it is an attempt to further limit access to the internet in China. The official reason for delaying the measure is that more time is needed for technical development of the filter.

However, activists both inside China and abroad claim the delay is down to their resistance to the move. Business organisations in the United States and Europe have welcomed the delay.

photo: Internet café in China (flickr/Tim Yang.net)