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.