Facebook criticised over decision to stop public privacy votes

Facebook is set to remove the ability for users to vote on changes to its data privacy policy, in a move that has angered campaigners, according to BBC News.

In an email to all members, Facebook said it wanted a "more meaningful" way for users to give feedback.

The site has also proposed combining information across its other services, such as photo-sharing app Instagram.

Facebook said a vote into the changes could take place, but more than 300 million users would need to participate.

Under the site's rules, votes have an effect only if 30 per cent of the user base has taken part. The site recently announced its one billionth sign-up.

A campaign opposing the changes and calling for more transparency has been launched.

The Our-Policy.org website is urging users to comment on the announcement in order to trigger a user vote on Facebook's plans.

Under current rules, if there are 7,000 comments on an issue it will be voted upon. At the time of writing, 3,000 members had commented.

In explaining the changes, Facebook said it was looking for ways to more "effectively engage" with its users over changes to the network.

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