Overview

On 3 June 2010, the European Court of Justice delivered its judgments in two important cases, which both originated in the Netherlands, concerning the operation of games of chance on the internet.

The Court confirmed its ruling in last year's Liga Portuguesa case that an EU Member State may prohibit the supply of games of chance via the internet in its territory by a provider which is licensed to provide such services in another member state. Such restrictions may be justified on grounds of consumer protection and the combat of crime and fraud. One of the judgments goes further by suggesting that the grant or renewal of a single national licence to provide such gaming services may not need to be put out to tender where the licensee's activities are subject to strict controls by public authorities.

Click ‘View Briefing’ to read more on the two judgments.