Brussels has, once again, slammed the French decree enacted under the country’s crime prevention legislation. The text, which clearly favours the State monopoly, does not conform to Community Law.

The French law runs counter to the principle of European law and the freedom of trade and services within the European Union. Above all, it is designed to reduce the financial flows generated by the gaming sector.

This decree includes measures to force banking establishments to block money transfers from or to names on a predefined list.

Professionals working in the sector and members of the European Gaming Betting Association (EGBA) are delighted with the European Union’s involvement and are hoping for a quick solution to the problem.

If the situation does not change, the Commission could institute new infraction proceedings against France, in addition to the actions already taken.