Abstract: A method and network element for feedback control for adjusting a rate of message transmission over a connection in a network is provided. The connection comprises a source and destination linked by forward and backward message paths. The source has instructions for setting a message transmission rate for the connection provided by feedback messages received, each containing an explicit rate of transmission. The method comprises steps: receiving feedback messages from the backward path; extracting an explicit rate being carried by each feedback message received; storing each feedback message received in a queue; retrieving a stored feedback message and, substantially when it is transmitted, marking it with an explicit rate determined from an extracted explicit rate pertaining to another message received more recently and a rate determined from a state of congestion of the network element; and externally transmitting the feedback message over the backward message path once so marked.