Icann to revisit .xxx adult domain plans

Icann is still considering the .xxx domain

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (Icann) will look into the feasibility of offering a .xxx domain for adult web sites at a meeting later this week.

The .xxx domain is supposed to make it easier to filter adult content on the web, but has faced stiff opposition, particularly in the US. Icann got close to approving it before, and will discuss it again at a meeting on Friday.

"Icann will take another look at the proposal and it will be on the agenda at the meeting on Friday," said a spokesman, adding that it was too early to speculate on the possible outcome.

The issue came back on the agenda after the ICM Registry, which proposes the domain, had some success with an independent review, which found that its previous application had been fair and should have been honoured.

The ICM Registry sent an open letter to Icann stressing how keen it was to help in any way possible to finally launch the domain.

"ICM remains committed to the .xxx project, and is eager to work with Icann to take the steps necessary to launch the new sponsored top-level domain and, in so doing, ensure that the results of the first-ever Icann Independent Review Process are fully implemented in accordance with Icann's own core values of accountability, transparency and objectivity," said ICM chairman Stuart Lawley.