Brigid Simmonds, Betting & Gaming Council (BGC) Chairman, however, said: “I would like to congratulate Marcus Boyle and warmly welcome him to his new role.

“As part of our continued commitment to ever-higher standards on safer gambling, the BGC will continue to work with the Gambling Commission, as well as with the Government on their evidence-led Gambling Review.

“I would also like to thank Marcus’ predecessor Bill Moyes for working with us over the last two years and wish him well for the future.”

The regulator has come under intense scrutiny over its failure to adhere to tackling responsible gambling and is currently providing input into the ongoing Government review of the Gambling Act.