Decisive european vote on internet gambling imminent

A report on European online gambling is set to be voted on next week by MEPs in Strasbourg.

The report, which was compiled by German European Member of Parliament Jürgen Creutzmann recommends a more centralized approach to online gambling regulation within the European Union. There is hope that if the European Commission takes up the issue, that centralized regulation will help prevent fragmentation in Europe, which often times sees one casino operator having to follow many different types of rules within a market.

Sigrid Ligné, Secretary General of the European Gaming and Betting Association issued comment on the issue, agreeing with the Creutzmann report.

“The Commission's inactivity continues to embed illegal behaviour,” said Ligné. The Commission needs to act as the guardian of the treaty."

After next week's deliberations and voting of the report, European Commission Chief Michel Barnier will present his opinions on internet gambling regulation. It is believed that those suggestions will be revealed early next year.