Key facts
- Phil Walker, former boss of William Hill, has been appointed interim CEO of Allwyn UK, the operator of the national lottery.
- MPs have raised concerns with the Gambling Commission regarding Walker's past regulatory sanction and his role with adult gaming centres.
- Walker previously held a role with City Gaming Ltd, which owns Game Nation, a chain of adult gaming centres.
- Game Nation announced Walker would step back from his role for the duration of his interim contract with the national lottery.
- Allwyn stated Walker's experience will help deliver growth and innovation for the national lottery.
The national lottery's operator, Allwyn UK, has appointed Phil Walker, formerly of William Hill, as its interim chief executive, prompting concerns from MPs and campaigners due to his record in the gambling industry.
MPs Dawn Butler and Iain Duncan Smith have written to the Gambling Commission, citing a sanction imposed on Walker in 2024 for failures in enforcing money laundering controls at William Hill, which resulted in a record £19.2m fine. They also highlighted his board role with Game Nation, a major operator of adult gaming centres (AGCs) often described as 'slot farms' and open 24 hours a day.
These concerns are particularly notable as AGCs have faced criticism from figures like Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, for targeting vulnerable individuals. Walker's previous advocacy for the growth of such venues appears to contrast with government efforts to tighten licensing regimes for the sector.
In response to the scrutiny, Game Nation announced that Walker would step back from his role with the company for the duration of his interim contract with the national lottery. Allwyn stated that Walker's extensive experience in the sector, including his operational, digital, and marketing expertise, will be valuable for the lottery's growth and innovation. They also pointed out that Walker retained his personal licence from the Gambling Commission, suggesting regulatory confidence in his fitness to operate within the sector.
The national lottery operates under a separate regulatory framework from other gambling sectors and is mandated to contribute billions to good causes. In contrast, City Gaming, the owner of Game Nation, is backed by investors in a 'tactical value' fund managed by Morgan Stanley. A recent employment tribunal case involving Game Nation also brought to light an unusual incident at one of its venues.