The latest reports relating to gaming machines within Spain add to the events earlier this week in France which show European countries are taking a tough new approach to problem gambling.

It has been reported that as part of a pioneering new project to tackle problem gambling, slot machines in Catalonia, are to carry health warnings that will tell players that if they play too long the machines may switch themselves off. It is suggested that the messages will flash every 30 minutes warning gamblers exactly how long they have been playing. One of the machines that is part of the project known as 'video lottery' and installed in bingo clubs throughout the country has been programmed to turn itself off if the player has been playing for 90 minutes.

We reported earlier this week how new legislation that came into effect on June 1st in France targeted online gaming sites. From now on operators must show information relating to not only the amount of time that has been played but also the amount of money the player has staked in a session.

While the majority of the gaming industry works with the likes of Gamcare and the GREaT Foundation to monitor and help those with gambling problems these latest reports show that European Governments are trying to take a more preventative strategy and restrict players. While the aims and goals of Gamcare and GREaT Foundation are clear in terms of the councilling and research they offer along with a number of other services the latest preventative measures don't seem as well thought through.

The legislation in France appears to be more motivated by money rather than to protect the French Citizens. The Government benefits highly in terms of tax under the new policies and in addition it makes it difficult for oversees operators to offer gaming services within the French nation and hence keeping money within its own economy.

The latest ideas from Spain are also somewhat questionable. Most bingo clubs have many similar machines. Those that wish to continue playing if a machine turns off will switch to another machine. Educating the society, so that friends and family as well as operators can spot the signs of problem gambling is therefore likely to be more successful in terms of preventing long-term problems while allowing other players the freedom to play without restrictions.

At the time when legislative changes are being made, largely by bureaucrats, without experience in the gambling industry, now would be a good time for bingo operators from all over Europe to form an online bingo association. This would help shape future legislation and be a trusted source if it was run responsible.