Right2Bet discusses major Dutch decision

(PRESS RELEASE) -- Right2bet's main focus this week is understandably the latest development in the courtroom battle between the Dutch government and both Ladbrokes and Betfair. The two bookmakers had taken the State to court over the country's laws on gambling, which permit only the State operator to take sporting bets.

The response of Advocate General Yves Bot was somewhat predictable, with Bot choosing to lean in favour of the Dutch Government's position, stating that they are permitted to award a license to just one operator – although this is not a legally binding decision.

His words leave the Dutch in a similar position to before, continuing to battle against Article 49 of the European Constitution, which states that all E.U companies should have equal rights to trade in all member countries. The AG's main argument hinged on the right governments have to restrict this freedom in their own territory, in order to protect "public order, the prevention of fraud, or the protection of consumers". Of course, as Right2bet have pointed out in the past, very little research has ever been done in Europe to see if consumers are actually protected by such rulings – certainly problem gambling is no more prevalent in nations with liberal gambling laws than those with restrictive or prohibitive laws.

This week's blog also features some big news from Germany, where a survey has found that around two million Germans regularly partake in online gambling, despite the countries archaic and restrictive laws on the hobby. Maybe it's time for the Bund to wake up and respond to what the nation obviously wants?

The campaign has also gained its twenty fifth partner over the weekend, with the addition of both Bet-on-football and Dutch site Poker Portaal lending their support to the cause, joining such industry names as Stanleybet, Betfair and the GPWA.

Last but certainly not least, Right2bet would like to wish all our supporters a very Merry Christmas, and we hope that Santa brings those of you actually allowed to bet some good luck over the festive period!

Come and visit us at www.right2bet.net, where you can read the latest news on the European deregulation campaign, sign our petition and even email your M.E.P directly!