European Commission begin multiple infringement proceedings

European Commission have formerly opened infringement proceedings against a number of EU Member States in relation to the countries’ online gambling laws.

A total of seven nations whose gaming laws appear to be in breach of the rules of the internal market have been targeted, including Sweden, which has been sent a reasoned opinion.

Meanwhile Belgium, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Lithuania, Poland and Romania have all been asked for further information about their national legislation.

Following the publication of its Action Plan in October 2012, the Commission began a dialogue with Member States, requesting that national restrictions to the provision of online gambling be justified as provided for in the case-law of the European Court of Justice.

Clive Hawkswood, CEO of online gambling trade association the Remote Gambling Association, said of the development: “This is a step in the right direction for an online gambling industry that has suffered for too long from legal uncertainty and unjustified market closures.

“Although we are fully aware that, under certain conditions, market restrictions can be deemed lawful and justified, we are entitled to the free provision of services and due regard must be given to those rights.”