The online gambling sector in the UK was given a strong vote of confidence this week from a high profile figure who said it was at present “largely unaffected by the credit crunch”.

Robin Le Provost, who is head of the E-commerce Development department for the Channel island state of Alderney added the growth of online poker and horse racing has not yet ended.

The statement comes as good news for both the gambling promoting groups and players alike, the latter being concerned that cut backs to their favourite sites would lessen their playing experience and chances of winning.

Despite having a tiny population of just 2,400 Alderney is a relative heavy hitter in the online gambling world with its Gambling Control Commission which was set up in 2000 a thriving business arm of the tax haven state.

His comments come as the UK tries to come to terms with recession and widespread financial turmoil.

Today the British government unveiled a package of measures aimed at rescuing the banking system here which could add up to £500bn and six central banks, including the Bank of England cut interest rates by half a percentage point in an effort to steady the faltering global economy.
 ?Commenting on the current climate with relation to online gambling, Mr. Le Prevost remarked: "Obviously the length and depth of this current financial environment could play a part and we will keep watching."??Gambling firms were said to be "cash rich", which is one reason why the credit crunch that the global economy finds itself in is unlikely to affect their strategies.??Indeed, the e-commerce expert claimed that internet gambling groups currently look recession proof.

ICM Research recently conducted a study - published by the Gambling Commission - that indicated 8.8 per cent of consumers had taken part in some form of remote gambling during the year to June 2008.??Remote gambling was defined as betting via a computer, mobile phone or interactive/digital TV.

While the comments of important figures such as Mr. Le Prevost will help maintain stability in the British online gaming sector there is still obvious concern that a serious recession could see players closing online gambling accounts in their thousands.

For now though the sector is strong and the industry hopes that’s the way it will continue.

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