UK ISP’s reject gambling commission request

UK internet service providers (ISP’s) have reportedly rebuffed the UK Gambling Commission‘s attempt to introduce “warning pages” on unlicenced gambling websites, a tactic the Commission says would deter potential customers from playing on what it considers to be illegal websites.

The Government’s request precedes the proposed point-of-consumption gambling legislation that it expects to be introduced later this year .

A TalkTalk spokesperson said the company is of the opinion that it is down to customer choice and not for ISP’s to decide what content should be accessible.

In a statement, BT said blocking requests would require a court order, but that the Government had other tools at its disposal such as clamping down on illegal advertising on the websites.

In conclusion, the Commission said: “We have been exploring the internet service providers’ approach when faced with clear evidence that sites are unlicensed and engaged in illegal activities. At this stage we are just exploring back-up options as we do not expect illegal sites to be a major issue given the attractiveness and width of the legal offer.”

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