Camelot has dropped its appeal against the decision to award the fourth UK National Lottery licence to Allwyn, paving the way for an official handover of operations.
As confirmed in a statement on Allwyn’s website, Camelot has backed down in the dispute which many feared would have disastrous consequences.
Last week, Labour MP Kevin Brennan added his voice to the many that were concerned about a delay in the handover of the lottery, which could leave a £1bn-sized hole in funds set aside for good causes.
The UK Gambling Commission said there could be a gap in service between the expiry of the third licence on January 31, 2024, and the commencement of the fourth licence, if Camelot did not withdraw its appeal against the March decision to name Allwyn as the preferred applicant to operate the UK National Lottery.
However, the biggest obstacle appears to have been removed now after Allwyn withdrew its legal challenge, while Allwyn has responded by agreeing to waive all claims for costs or damages against Camelot.
“Allwyn very much welcomes this decision and looks forward to cooperating with Camelot and the Gambling Commission on the transition process,” Allwyn stated.
“Allwyn is excited at the prospect of becoming the custodian of Europe’s biggest lottery.”
As part of its plan to rebuild the UK National Lottery, Allwyn has pledged to refresh its portfolio of games and give scratchcards a makeover, while halving the price of lottery tickets and raising for £38bn for good causes are other significant proposals that have been discussed.