MPs call for an end to ads for online gambling sites
$5,000 Welcome Bonus
MPs are calling for an end to advertising for online gambling, arguing that the surge in television, radio and online ads since it was legalised are increasing addiction and causing financial problems.
The Netherlands legalised online gambling on October 1, granting licences to 10 companies, including two owned by the state.
Since then, evening television and online advertising slots have been packed out with adverts extolling the potential for winning, and featuring celebrities, including football player Wesley Sneijder and police woman turned tv presenter Ellie Lust.
A motion drawn up by the Socialists called for a ban on ‘untargeted adverts for risky games of chance’, and was supported by the two Christian coalition parties as well as much of the opposition.
Justice minister Sander Dekker had called on MPs not to support the motion, saying it was too soon, but has asked gambling firms to tone down their advertising.
It is not yet clear what Dekker will do with the motion or what line the next administration will take.
Thank you for donating to DutchNews.nl
The DutchNews.nl team would like to thank all the generous readers who have made a donation in recent weeks. Your financial support has helped us to expand our coverage of the coronavirus crisis into the evenings and weekends and make sure you are kept up to date with the latest developments.
DutchNews.nl has been free for 14 years, but without the financial backing of our readers, we would not be able to provide you with fair and accurate news and features about all things Dutch. Your contributions make this possible.
