Portugal debating on internet gambling


Saturday June 14,2014 : PORTUGUESE POLITICAL DEBATE ON INTERNET GAMBLING IMMINENT
 
Final draft of proposed legalization scheduled for parliamentary discussion before session ends in July.
 
The long-awaited regulation and licensing of online gambling in Portugal is progressing steadily toward parliament and debate prior to the summer break on July 10, according to economic and financial reportage from national Portuguese media.
 
The Ministry of Economics has reportedly completed the legislative drafting process, which in the past failed to meet time deadlines on at least two occasions, and Luís Marques Guedes, minister of the presidency and of parliamentary affairs recently commented that this first draft is now ready for parliament.
 
Insiders who have seen the draft claim that it follows the framework adopted by neighbouring Spain, France and Italy and has eschewed the originally envisaged monopolistic structure. It includes the creation of an overall gambling regulator which will approve applicants and issue licenses.