UKGC Chairman Marcus Boyle to step down after three years in the role

Marcus Boyle, Chairman of Great Britain's Gambling Commission, announced that he will be stepping down after more than three years in the role. Boyle confirmed his exit on Wednesday, departing when his current term ends on January 31, 2025. The Commission has not said when it expects to appoint a replacement.

Boyle, who has served as chairman of the Commission since September 2021, led the regulator through periods of change. Some of the major milestones that took place during his tenure include awarding the fourth National Lottery licence to Allwyn, with the company taking over operations from Camelot, which held the tender for 30 years.

Moreover, Boyle has played a key role in forming the Commission's new three-year strategy. Announced in April, the new framework sets out plans for targeted investment in key areas. Boyle has also helped in the ongoing implementation of the Gambling Act Review and its accompanying white paper.

“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 in a statement. “We wish him well for the future.”

Minister for gambling Baroness Twycross praised Boyle, paying tribute to his leadership during what she described as a “significant” three-year period 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 Chairman's exit follows the government's announcement this week of a new statutory levy on gambling profits, set to replace the current voluntary scheme. Under this plan, each business will pay from 0.1% to 1.1% of gross gambling yield (GGY), depending on the sector, vertical and the type of gambling offered.

The government expects to raise about £100 million ($127 million) for gambling-related harm prevention from this levy, which is set to come into effect starting next year.

Moreover, the government has confirmed new stake limits for online slots. Players aged 18 to 24 will be limited to spending £2 per spin, with the limit increasing to £5 a spin for over-25s.