In an update issued via its website, the UK Gambling Commission has revealed that the UK High Court has approved its request to lift a suspension that has prevented the regulator from awarding the final National Lottery licence to preferred bidder Alwyn.
Earlier this year, the Gambling Commission chose newcomer Alwyn over existing license holder Camelot for the final of four National Lottery licences. Camelot, who had been the primary operator for 30 years, challenged the decision by taking the matter to the High Court. As a result of these legal proceedings, the High Court placed an automatic suspension on the issuance of the licence.
The Gambling Commission had previously requested that the suspension be lifted so that it could move forward with the licensing process. According to today’s announcement, the High Court has now approved that request.
In a statement on the matter, the Gambling Commission said:
“We will, therefore, begin the important work of formally awarding the licence to Allwyn. Our priority is to continue to work to implement our decision and ensure a seamless and timely transition to the next licence, for the benefit of participants and good causes.”
The decision to lift the suspension does not, however, mean that Alwyn’s winning bid is now set in stone. The High Court will still decide on the matter in October of this year.
Speaking of the case the Commission said:
“We will also now be preparing for trial of the various claims. We remain resolute that we have run a fair and robust competition, and that our evaluation has been carried out fairly and lawfully in accordance with our statutory duties. We have taken every step possible to ensure a level playing field for all interested parties, to enable us to appoint a licensee who will engage and protect players, run the National Lottery with integrity and ensure the National Lottery maximises support for good causes and its contribution to society through further innovation and investment.”
Based in London, Natasha is a former sports journalist with experience working for some of the biggest athletes & brands in the world of sports and iGaming.