A recent court decision in the U.K. upheld Victor Chandler International's ability to advertise on the teletext for customers. The decision, handed down July 16, 1999, found that the company's solicitation of customers was allowed under section 9(1)(b) of the Betting and Gaming Duties Act 1981 since teletext does not fall under the issue, circulation or distribution of "an advertisement or other document."
The case has created a stir in UK government circles. As a result of VCI's victory, the Treasury and Lord Chancellor are looking into whether they can legislate against gambling advertisements on the teletext and other electronic media. The Lord Chancellor is expected to broach the subject while announcing the new UK budget before the House of Commons in April 2000.
Click here to read the "Victor Chandler v. Commissioners of Customs and Excise and Another" decision.