Developments in Dutch Online Gambling

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The possibility of a new coalition government being formed in The Netherlands has led to media speculation about a change in perception on online gambling. The speculation, which was kick started by a report in the Dutch newspaper Telegraaf, said that the incoming government could take a more positive approach to online gambling and that this could bring in some sort of legalization and regulatory framework. The Telegraaf claimed that its report was based on government sources that it did not identify. The reason for this change in thinking is the estimated €270 million tax income that could accrue to the cash strapped government. Other European countries like France and Italy have already put in place a licensing regime and some other countries are in the process of doing so. Therefore there is no reason for the Netherlands to be left behind. Industry observers have opined that The Netherlands would prefer the French model, which would allow it to have a strong state owned operator competing in a tightly regulated market. In August 2010, a study by the Dutch Justice Ministry had recommended a more open approach to online gambling. However, that report had suggest issuing some licenses for online poker only, keeping the other gambling forms of online gambling like casino, sports book and bingo away from any liberalisation initiatives.

Subsequent to the publication of the Telegraaf report there has been reaction from several sources. Radio Netherlands reported that about 500,000 Dutch citizens regularly gamble online, although illegally, mainly at the web sites of offshore online gambling operators. A spokesman for Holland Casino, the state's land casino monopoly has indicated that it would be interested in operating an online gambling site in a legalized environment in order to tap the thriving illegal offshore market. The spokesperson clarified that it would be possible to ensure that the safety and other concerns associated with online gambling are taken care of. The spokesman listed some of the measures deemed essential. He said, "Attention should be paid to adequate preconditions, such as an admission pass which must be picked up in person with a valid photo ID. A pre-set maximum amount, or the introduction of a 'cooling-down' button, would also create additional barriers."

However, responsible gambling advocates are not putting up a united front on this issue. The Tactus addiction centre has recommended that the government stay away from stimulating any form of gambling. IVO, an addiction research outfit, disagreed with this point of view. IVO spokesperson Carola Schrijvers said, "If we do it right, and set the right conditions to operators, legalisation could be an advantage."

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