The hearings to which the Deputy refers are being conducted by the Alderney Gaming Control Commission (AGCC). They are part of on-going legal processes in the Channel Islands (Alderney) following the decision by the AGCC to suspend the gaming licence for the company concerned. Legal proceedings are also underway in the USA. I am keeping in touch with developments, but, in light of the on-going legal processes, it would be inappropriate for me to comment at this stage. I understand when the hearings resumed yesterday, they were held in camera.
I hope to have an opportunity later this year to meet with the Minister from the Channel Islands with responsibility for the regulation of gambling, for a wide ranging discussion. I am, of course, aware of the subsidiary based here and I regret that, in the case of some of its employees, there is some uncertainty at present about their continued employment.
The Deputy will be aware from the Government Legislative Programme for the Autumn 2011 Session that a new Gambling Bill is being prepared. I can confirm that it will provide for the licensing of online services as part of a major reform of the gambling laws.