Netherlands’ National Online Gambling Association has welcomed calls from the Dutch regulator for operators to improve on player welfare.

Kansspelautoriteit said it is to recommend tighter legislation and regulations to the Ministry of Justice & Security after its investigation found providers could intervene “more quickly and effectively” on excessive or problem gaming.

The regulator said analysis of 10 providers concluded that operators “may fulfil their duty of care better if the legislation surrounding the duty of care is tightened and standards are further clarified.”

The NOGA said that the duty of care must be “”better guaranteed and clarified,” adding that it has “previously noted” that current legislation around duty of care is “too vague” and based on a standard that is “too open.”

It said there is a “lack of clear guidelines and a uniform conceptual framework” and that tighter regulations will “improve customer protection and provide clear guidance to providers.”

The NOGA said: “It is important that online gamblers can be confident that they will receive the same basic protection from licensed providers everywhere and that they will be protected from risks associated with online gambling.

“NOGA is pleased that the Gaming Authority will clarify the duty of care in the short term and looks forward to further developing the duty of care together with the KSA.

“NOGA also supports the Gaming Authority’s plea to clarify and further develop the duty of care during the evaluation of the Remote Gambling Act and the subsequent revision of legislation and regulations.”