New UK Online Poker Regulation Regime Outlined

In the wake of the recent Full Tilt Poker scandal the UK has announced a new online licencing regime for all online gaming operators, including poker sites, selling services into its jurisdiction.

All sites will have to obtain a licence from the Gambling Commission before being able to operate in the UK regardless of where they are based, including current “white list” jusrisdictions such as Isle of Man and Gibraltar.

Clive Hawkswood, of industry lobby group the Remote Gambling Association. Said it would play a “constructive part in the process to ensure that the new regulatory and tax regime will provide an environment where Government objectives can be achieved; where the industry can succeed commercially in the global online gambling market; and where the interests of consumers continue to be properly safeguarded."

Most online poker sites operating in the UK are based elsewhere and need to be licenced or regulated in a “white list” jurisdiction to be able to advertise in the UK.

Hawkswood’s only fear was of being overburdened by taxation. “Regulation by the Gambling Commission therefore holds no fears for our members,” he said. “But a significantly higher tax burden that could lead to a reduction in value and choice for consumers certainly does. It is therefore clearly crucial that any new regulatory regime is complemented by a fair and sustainable fiscal regime.”

Stay tuned to CardPlayer.com for more as this story unfolds.

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