Ex-888 boss faces French grilling

John Anderson was a former Ladbrokes executive

Gaming firm 888's ex-chief executive John Anderson is to be interviewed by French authorities, the firm has said.

News of the meeting, which is expected to take place next month, pushed 888's shares more than 4% lower in London, and hurt other firms in the industry.

888 said it did not know why the meeting had been called, adding that revenue and income from France made up an "immaterial percentage" of business.

Mr Anderson stepped down as chief executive at the end of last year.

He remains a non-executive director of the firm.

According to the Guardian newspaper, two executives from the internet betting firm Bwin Interactive were held by French authorities last year as they unveiled a shirt sponsorship deal with AS Monaco.

888 is a former sponsor of the Toulouse football club, the Guardian said, adding that another online gaming firm also has been asked in for questioning.

Gambling stocks have had a rocky ride in recent months as the US has clamped down on betting, and a number of executives have been detained.