Concern Over European State Gambling Monopolies

The recent talks at the European Gaming Conference and Expo in Barcelona of devising an online gambling code to protect online players, problem gamblers and minors was given much thought and discussion.

On the panel of guests that discussed this Andre Wilsenach, Alderney regulator and Rolf Francis Sims who is the advisor of Norway's Ministry of Culture.

In this discussion Sims said that Norway is thinking of bringing forth regulations that will be similar to the United States Unlawful Gambling Enforcement Act. Sims also went on to say that online gambling is going to have a few hard years and he feels the European Union is becoming uncomfortable in its role of trying to break up the state run online casino monopolies. However, with Sims admitting Norway is researching implementing laws like UIGEA but he did not give a time frame for this new law. 

Wilsenach discussed the lack of progress for support that the online gambling industry is getting and state monopolies are remaining in control.

There was over all dissatisfaction by the attending members with the Norwegian policy is working, and one member went as far as to say Europe tends to be more interested in keeping these state run online monopolies.