and a desire to be in the vanguard of what respondents believed would be an important future market. These considerations are not insignificant, but taking a public policy perspective, it is noteworthy that few major jurisdictions seem to consider there to be a need to act rapidly. Most are adopting a measured approach. Are there any convincing arguments that this issue must be addressed ahead of or as a priority by the gambling review body?

In a similar vein, assuming that the arguments for permitting Internet gambling are accepted by the government, there remains a question of whether British operators should be restricted to offering gaming to British residents. A good case for having such a restriction can be made in terms of better regulation and control and avoiding clashes with other jurisdictions which are opposed to such gambling or which will seek to claim rights to tax revenue. What are the counter arguments?

The tone of the responses was such that it appeared that respondents generally believed nothing could be done in advance of legislative change. The Board wondered whether this is a correct interpretation of respondents' views. Are there any steps which it and the industry should be considering which would either allow the industry to take some advantage now of the opportunities the Internet offers or which would help the industry prepare better on the assumption that Internet gaming will in due course be permitted? Any suggestions would be welcomed.