Following legal challenges by Camelot, the process was held up in the High Court. However, the Court has, as of 29 June, agreed to lift a suspension on awarding Allwyn the licence, imposed as a result of Camelot’s legal action.
Allwyn has released the following statement:
“Today’s ruling is good news for The National Lottery; it enables the Gambling Commission to move forward to award Allwyn the Fourth National Lottery Licence.
“Mrs. Justice O’Farrell was clear that the public interest, and in particular the impact on good causes, was a strong factor in her judgment. Her decision paves the way for the transition to Allwyn, the winner of the Fourth Licence Competition, serving The National Lottery as its operator from February 2024; kickstarting a transformation programme that brings an enhanced games portfolio, new technologies, provisions for safer play, and a substantial increase in returns to good causes.
“We look forward to the Gambling Commission moving to Award and to Camelot working constructively with us to ensure a smooth handover for the benefit of players and good causes alike.”
The Gambling Commission has also announced plans to prepare for trial, in response to Camelot’s legal challenges.
The Commission says it will “remain resolute” in its belief that the licence process was fair and robust, and that its evaluation of Allywn’s superior suitability had been carried out fairly and lawfully.
For the full story so far leading to this decision, see Gambling Insider's cover feature on the downfall of Camelot after nearly 30 years as The National Lottery licensee.
