Under the Operation of Betting Offices Regulations, 2000, the conditions for licences were relatively stringent, in the interest of consumers and of the reputation of betting companies. Licensing depended on a number of factors concerning the personality of executives of the applicant company, the applicant’s financial position and background, and the applicant’s abilities and availability of appropriate resources.

Furthermore, applicants had to draw up an audited control system with regard to its accounting, administration and electronic technology. Licensed companies could be inspected at any time to verify whether they abided with their licence.

An application for a betting licence required the following accompanying documentation:

• a detailed profile of the promoting company.

• a copy of the last audited accounts of the promoting company.

• a business plan indicating the economic activity (including job creation) which will be carried out from Malta

• a plan of the premises earmarked for adoption as a call centre.