Middlesex County Chess Association

There has been, considerable correspondence, over the last few weeks re the new FIDE regulation about mobile phones.

This is the new regulation. 12.2.

a. During play the players are forbidden to make use of any notes, sources of information, advice, or analyse on another chessboard.

b. It is strictly forbidden to bring mobile phones or other electronic means of communication, not authorised by the arbiter, into the playing venue. If a player’s mobile phone rings in the playing venue during play, that player shall lose the game. The score of the opponent shall be determined by the arbiter.            

These regulations were published in 2004, and they were to take effect from 1^st July 2005.

The part of the rule about phones ringing has been in force at Inter county events, tourneys, and congresses for the whole of the intervening period. Many of our players are well aware of this regulation. And wish to follow this rule.

Some of the Chess Leagues in this district have either been unaware of this amendment, or have decided that they will not follow this rule strictly for this year.

The Middlesex County Chess Association, are following their written rules.

“1. PLAYING RULES:

Unless otherwise provided all games shall be played in accordance with the current laws of chess as laid down by FIDE.”

Therefore the Middlesex League players are required to follow this rule. If two captains mutually agree before the match commences that they will only issue a warning during their match, which is their prerogative for that one event. NO PRECEDENT HAS BEEN SET.

“It is strictly forbidden to bring mobile phones or other electronic means of communication, not authorised by the arbiter, into the playing venue.”

Zoë Ryle is of the opinion that this part of the rule is not enforceable. They cannot be left outside the venue because of a lack of security. Match captains need to have them available for last minute calls to/from missing team members. (In vibratory mode only please)

BUT players should not be allowed to have the use of a mobile phone while playing, because of the first part of that rule.

“During play the players are forbidden to make use of any notes, sources of information, advice, or analyse on another chessboard.”

Using a mobile phone, during a game, could be interpreted as breaking that regulation.

There is another amendment that is not being discussed,

8.1 Players may not write down their moves in advance.

No penalties are mentioned, no way of enforcing this is indicated. It has been suggested through one discussion, that players should courteously warn each other if anyone is found breaking this rule. If a player is warned three times in a game then an official complaint could be made. (Zoe Ryle suggests that we should follow this procedure)

This rule had been introduced as it can be considered a way of making a note, or analysing a move. (see rule above)

November 29^th 2005.