Dutch Democratic & Labour parties seek betting amendments

The Dutch Labour (PVdA) and Democratic People’s Parties (VVD) are reported to be seeking to restrict certain online betting activities in order to prevent match fixing and maintain integrity standards within national sports.

The coalition parties are seeking to submit new wagering amendments to the proposed Dutch online gambling bill, with the aim of removing betting on “easy to manipulate” events.

Dutch news sources report that the parties have requested that betting on individually influenced outcomes such as red cards in football or double faults in tennis be banned outright from the nation’s upcoming legislation.

The parties further seek to eliminate licensed bookmakers from offering betting markets on amateur sports and friendly (non-competitive) matches featuring Dutch teams.

KNVB the Dutch football association is reported to be backing the amendments which will be put forward to the Kamer.

“Limiting gambling opportunities in this way is a profit for the sport. The important thing is that not criminals, but players on the field, determine how the match plays out. And these proposals contribute to that”, said KNVB Operational Director Gijs de Jong in a statement.

“We are very supportive of these restrictions and we are pleased that these parties comply with our wishes.”

At present the Dutch online gambling licensing legislation is being reviewed by new Secretary of State Justice Klass Dijkhoff and regulator Kansspelautoriteit