http://ec.europa.eu/internal_market/consultations/2011/online_gambling_en.htmThe EU is inviting interested parties to give their opinions on online gambling. The consultation form isn't really aimed at consumers but if you enjoy playing poker in a free market, I think that it is worthwhile responding in a couple of sections.
Several EU countries are restricting online gambling on spurious grounds eg fraud money laundering etc while conveniently ignoring that almost all business types can have these problems. They actually wish to protect tax revenues and subsidies to domestic sports at the expense of gambling consumers.
The online poker market is fragile and taxing players can have a completely disproportionate effect - someone who can afford to lose €200 a month from tournament entries of €1000 will play 25% less if a 5% tax is imposed and 50% less on a 10% tax - the same principle applies to sports bets. We are as entitled to a free market as any other consumer.
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