UK'S REMOTE GAMING ASSOCIATION BACKS FREEDOM OF INDIVIDUALS TO GAMBLE ONLINE

29 June 2007

Trade Association throws its weight behind Safe and Secure Internet Gambling Initiative

The Remote Gambling Association (RGA), which represents some of the largest global remote gambling companies, has endorsed the Safe and Secure Internet Gambling Initiative for its efforts to promote the freedom of individuals to gamble online with the proper safeguards.

"RGA endorses the Safe and Secure Internet Gambling Initiative in its mission to support regulated Internet gambling and protect consumers betting online," said Clive Hawkswood, Chief Executive.

"Internet gambling is capable of control in order to prevent it from being used as a source of crime. Only through a regulatory framework as championed by the Initiative, will the proper protection be in place to guard against money laundering, fraud and identity theft, he added."

The RGA provides the online gambling industry with a single voice on issues of importance to regulators, legislators, and key decision makers.

"RGA's endorsement is a significant indication of the importance of mobilising support for regulated Internet gambling, and we are delighted they are joining our effort," said Jeffrey Sandman, spokesman for the Safe and Secure Internet Gambling Initiative. "We encourage supporters to visit http://www.safeandsecureig.org to urge Members of [the US] Congress to co-sponsor legislation to regulate Internet gambling, thereby protecting consumers and capturing billions in [tax] revenue that is needed for critical government programs."

Hawkswood pointed out that the RGA recently offered further evidence to Members of Congress in testimony to the House Committee on Financial Services that a regulatory framework for Internet gambling would protect consumers and provide integrity to Internet gambling financial transactions. Existing systems and technology have proven successful in combating underage and compulsive gambling and protecting Internet gambling transactions according to the RGA.

Other endorsers of the Initiative include the UC Group and Baker Tilly.

Online Casino News courtesy of InfoPowa