Friday, February 09, 2007

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 initiative 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.