In non-binding guidance to governments the European Union yesterday made a number of recommendations intended to help member states provide a high level of consumer protection for those gambling online.

EU flag

With the aim of the protecting the most vulnerable, most notably those aged under 18, the recommendations will also ensure that operators apply responsible marketing standards.

The move has been welcomed by the Remote Gambling Association. In a statement, the RGA said: “It is to be hoped that newer licensing jurisdictions will find the Commission’s work a practical aid in developing their own regimes and that this initiative will be the first step towards a harmonisation of standards within the EU.

“Although there are a small number of details that the RGA would like to discuss further with stakeholders, it is fully supportive of the Commission’s work in this area and of the vast majority of its findings.”

The RGA added that its only “fundamental concern” is that the measures focus solely on online gambling when appropriate consumer protection “should apply to all forms of gambling.”

The EU said that online gambling revenues in the union were €10.5bn in 2012.