Timelines Forming For UK Licensing
Published: Saturday, July 02, 2005 Online-Casinos.com
TIMELINES FORMING FOR UK LICENSING
End 2006 could see the first licenses
The government agencies involved in implementing the UK Gambling Bill, which
will see major reform in the British Isles and official regulation of online
gaming seems to be moving ahead slowly but surely judging by government timelines
released this week.
The key Gambling Commission is planning to start its regulatory role from autumn
2005, commencing with a formal consultation process as to how the provisions
of the act are to be implemented.
It is anticipated that applications for the first UK e-gaming licenses for online
casinos and poker rooms will be accepted from late 2006. The number of applications
will depend on the levels of taxation decided on by the UK government, as several
major online gambling companies have indicated that their choice of licensing
jurisdiction will depend on how reasonable the tax regime is to be. With credible
government regulatory alternatives available in Gibraltar, Malta, Alderney and
the Isle of Man, gambling firms will have a choice.
The answer to this crucial taxation question is expected from government around
November 2005, along with draft codes of practice for licensees.
Readers can keep abreast of developments by visiting www.gamblingcommission.co.uk.
