Bit from the Netherlands -- Ladbrokes today appealed in Dutch appeals court a ruling in favor of De Lotto in February that would make it illegal for foreign betting operators to do business with Dutch citizens. John O'Reilly, the managing director of Ladbrokes' e-gaming unit, said the company believes that the Dutch ruling violates European Union law. "We believe Ladbrokes has the right under EU law to distribute its services freely across borders," he said. The appeals decision is not expected for up to six weeks.
UK News -- Zone4Play announced today the launch of three fun-card games on its TwoWayTV channel, which is broadcast on the U.K. cable platforms NTL and Telewest. The card games include black jack, baccarat and video poker. The games are played for points. "These games give a flavor of the most popular card games played on the television using your remote," said Guy Templer, the head of business development for TwoWayTV. "They also neatly complement the challenges and quizzes that the TwoWayTV channel is best known for, giving our players a schedule of games that's always full of surprises."
Legal Stuff -- Israel's Ministry of Finance issued new regulations today that require winnings from gambling and lotteries to be taxed. The amount of tax to be paid is a 25 percent withholding tax. The regulations will go into effect retroactively to July 1, 2003. Individuals who win a prize have seven days to file the correct tax forms.
Holy Roller -- In the Aug. 9 issue of World magazine, William Bennett says that he believes casino gambling to be a sin. Bennett made headlines months ago when it was discovered that conservative family-values author had spent millions gambling in casinos. World, a Christian magazine based in Asheville, N.C., reports Bennett called his gambling a sin because "it was a bad use of time and resources."
Names and Faces -- U.K. bookmaker William Hill is employing the skills of Egon Zehnder, a headhunter, to find a replacement for John Brown, its departing chairman. Brown, who has been with William Hill for an impressive 44 years, will remain at his post until the end of the year. U.K. media are reporting that Barry Gibson, a William Hill board member and the former chief executive of Littlewoods, is a likely candidate for nomination.