Key points:
- Marcus Boyle’s term as Chair ends on 31 January 2025, following three years of leadership
- His tenure included the launch of the fourth National Lottery licence, raising funds for good causes to over £50bn
- The Gambling Commission published a three-year strategy in 2024, focusing on transparency and harm prevention
Marcus Boyle has announced his resignation as Chair of the Gambling Commission, effective 31 January 2025. His tenure, which began in 2022, has been marked by significant developments in the gambling industry and its regulatory landscape.
Under Boyle’s leadership, the Commission successfully launched the fourth National Lottery licence, a key initiative that contributed to funds raised for good causes exceeding £50bn ($62bn).
He also played a central role in implementing recommendations from the Gambling Act Review and White Paper, which aim to address gambling-related harm and modernise regulations.
In April 2024, the Commission outlined a three-year strategy, setting priorities for 2024-2027. This strategy reportedly emphasised data-driven decision-making, improved transparency and a focus on harm prevention.
The recruitment of a new Board of Commissioners was also completed during Boyle’s tenure, aiming to create a stronger governance framework.
Baroness Twycross, Minister for Gambling, said: “The past three years have been very significant for the Commission, as it takes forward measures set out in the Gambling Act Review and the start of the fourth National Lottery licence.”
Boyle’s departure comes amid ongoing scrutiny of the gambling industry, including the findings of the Commission’s 2024 Young People and Gambling Report. The report revealed that 27% of 11 to 17-year-olds spent their own money on gambling in the past year, with problem gambling rates among this age group rising to 1.5%.
The Commission has called for broader efforts, including parental and educational interventions, to mitigate harm.
As Boyle steps down, the Commission is expected to continue its focus on improving regulatory practices and protecting vulnerable groups. His successor has yet to be named.
