Major Initiative To Address
Responsible Online Gambling Procedures Proposed
Top level roundtable discussion plans
ambitious international initiative to better potect problem gamblers
A new global initiative and international code of conduct to address
responsible online gambling procedures is under discussion by the
industry following a top-level roundtable discussion held at a recent
London trade show.
The roundtable, convened by top software developer Microgaming,
discussed the need to review what is currently being done by the
industry and how a single common code might be created and implemented
globally. The resulting draft code of practice is likely to cover
individual operating sites as well as software providers.
A working party led by GamCare – the UK’s leading authority
on problem gambling and eCOGRA (eCommerce and Online Gambling Regulation
and Assurance), a self regulatory player protection body, will meet
within the next week to formally launch consultations on the initiative,
which it is hoped will be completed by the autumn. The organisations
hope to merge their current codes to provide a framework to be tabled
at an international summit later in the year.
As well as leading figures from the online gambling industry, the
wide ranging roundtable discussion was attended by the Portman Group,
invited to outline how the major players in the drinks industry
had combined to address problem drinking within the UK.
Roger Raatgever, CEO, Microgaming, comments: “Contrary to
some of the reportage on this industry, much is already being done
to address issues surrounding responsible online gambling. However,
we recognise that the current situation of having a number of codes
of practice covering a diverse range of areas is not ideal for the
industry or the players. The formation of one clearly defined international
code demonstrating best practice with a unified voice will strengthen
communication to both the players and the industry as a whole.“
Editorial note: InfoPowa was present at this very productive round
table discussion, where leading industry executives exchanged views
on how better to identify and protect problem gamblers in the future.
Further details will be released as the intiative shapes up, but
for now we can report a significant level of common purpose and
determination from a diverse group of senior people to carry through
a very substantial project.
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