[Richas]

My email to Mike Weir:

I was disappointed to hear that you (and presumably the SNP) support the recent legislation in the US that makes it illegal for banks to process payments to internet based gambling sites and indeed want to extend such legislation here.

Firstly this is a civil liberties matter. I should be free to play online poker in a safe regulated environment that offers protection for my cash held on account and prevents access by minors.What justification could you have for denying me this freedom? In any case your proposal would not stop Internet gambling it would like prohibition drive it into the hands of criminals rather than stop it.

Secondly this US act is a clearly protectionist in direct contravention of the WTO ruling in the Antigua case. Small countries need to be supported in the WTO against the major economic powers protectionism if the WTO is to result in fairer trade.

Finally do you not find it bizarre that it should be legal for banks to process payments for assault rifles, the arms trade, drugs, pornography etc etc but illegal to process a payment for a small wager placed by a consenting adult with their own money? Internet poker allows players to play for pennies in a game of skill, against each other rather than the house. In a casino, home game or illegal speeler with it's criminal overtones and potential threat to both winner and loser alike the game is played at far higher stakes. Your proposal would do far more harm than good. Please reconsider your position on this as on civil liberties, fair trade and practical grounds you have made a mistake.