Boyle to exit as chairman of Gambling Commission
Boyle, who confirmed his exit yesterday (27 November), will depart when his current term ends on 31 January 2025. He has served as chairman of the Commission since September 2021.
As chairman, Boyle led the Commission through a period of change across both the industry and regulatory landscapes. Major milestones include awarding and launching the fourth National Lottery licence to Allwyn, after Camelot held the tender for 30 years.
Boyle has also been playing a key role in the ongoing implementation of the Gambling Act Review and white paper. In addition, he helped form the Commission’s new three-year strategy which, announced in April, sets out plans for targeted investment in key areas.
“The board of commissioners and colleagues at the Gambling Commission have expressed their gratitude for Marcus’ leadership, dedication and contributions over the past three years,” the Commission said. “We wish him well for the future.”
Minister for gambling Baroness Twycross also has praise for the outgoing Boyle. She paid tribute to his leaderships during what was a “significant” three years for the Commission.
“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,” Baroness Twycross said.
“I am grateful for Marcus’ hard work and commitment to the Gambling Commission and public service over his tenure. I wish him the best for his future endeavours.”
The Commission has not said when it expects to appoint or announce a replacement.
Government confirms statutory levy, online slot limits
Boyle’s exit comes after the government yesterday announced new reforms as a result of the Gambling Act Review.
The first major change is a new statutory levy on gambling profits, with this to replace the current voluntary scheme. The rate paid by each business will range from 0.1% to 1.1% of gross gambling yield (GGY), with this dependent on the sector, vertical and the type of gambling they offer.
It is hoped this will raise £100 million (€120 million/$127 million) for gambling-related harm prevention. The new statutory levy is set to come into effect from next year.
Also confirmed by the government was new stake limits for online slots. Players aged 18 to 24 will be limited to spending £2 per spin. This increases to £5 a spin for over-25s.
The previous Conservative government announced the slot stake limits in February and pledged to introduce the limits by September. However, no such changes came into effect, as the new the Labour government had come into power.