Gaming and betting with special reference to the digital environment

Abstract

The work in this thesis covers an increasingly important subject, not only within the framework of current Maltese Legislation, but also including International Legislation of countless countries. There has always been a need for the regulation of gaming and betting. Maltese legislation is no different in this aspect, as it tries to prevent abuse of what otherwise may be considered a source of employment and income. Indeed, gaming and betting have in fact regained prominence of late. The introduction of gaming and betting over the internet have provided a new challenge to both those who pass the law, and those who help uphold the law. The investigations undertaken in this thesis start by supplying an introduction both to the forms of gaming and betting, and to the various areas of legislation that cover such acts. Importance is also given to the development of legislation in other countries such as the United Kingdom, the United States of America and Australia. Legislation on gaming and betting was seen to be far more advanced in these countries. Regard has been given to the legislation of the above states to gain greater insight to see how future legislative changes might affect Maltese Law. The study was then broadened to provide an insight on how gaming and betting have expanded to cover the digital environment. Here, current Maltese Legislation has been analysed. Areas where the current legislation has merit have been given credit, and areas defined as having possible shortcomings have been highlighted. Suggestions and proposals for potential legislation have also been made. The legislation, acts, statutes and other sources of information for this thesis are correct up to June 2001. To this effect, this thesis holds no bearing when amendments to the current legislation are enacted.