British politicians have expressed their worries regarding the recent appointment of Phil Walker, a former executive at William Hill, as the interim chief executive of Allwyn UK. This concern stems from Walker's previous regulatory sanction and his involvement with a major operator of high-street slot-machine venues.
Labour MP Dawn Butler and Conservative MP Iain Duncan Smith have reached out to the Gambling Commission, voicing their “deep concern” about Walker's new role leading the operator of the National Lottery, as reported by The Guardian.
They have raised questions about whether Walker's past work with City Gaming, which operates the adult gaming centre chain Game Nation, aligns with his current responsibilities. They have requested the regulator to clarify what factors were considered when evaluating Walker's suitability for this position.
In 2024, Walker, who previously led William Hill's operations in the UK and Ireland, faced personal sanctions from the Gambling Commission due to significant failures in anti-money laundering and terrorist financing measures at the company. William Hill was subsequently fined a record £19.2 million ($26.09 million) for these issues.
Additionally, Walker holds a non-executive role at Game Nation, the third-largest chain of adult gaming centres in Britain, known for their 24/7 operation and high density of slot machines. According to Companies House filings, Walker's earnings from this role likely exceeded £50,000.
Game Nation announced that Walker would step back from his position starting September 1, coinciding with his interim contract with the National Lottery.
The backdrop of this appointment is an increasing political scrutiny of adult gaming centres. Prime Minister Andy Burnham, while serving as mayor of Greater Manchester, previously criticized these establishments for targeting vulnerable populations and has proposed tightening the licensing regulations governing them.
Allwyn UK operates the National Lottery under a 10-year license from the Gambling Commission, which is projected to generate £6.5 billion ($8.83 billion) in revenue over the decade, with a significant portion earmarked for charitable causes.
Allwyn, owned by Czech billionaire Karel Komárek, has defended Walker's appointment, emphasizing his extensive operational, digital, and marketing expertise. “As we navigate an increasingly competitive environment, Phil Walker brings valuable operational, digital, and marketing experience alongside a significant understanding of our operating landscape,” stated Allwyn.
“His appointment will help deliver the next stage of growth and innovation for the national lottery, and we look forward to welcoming Phil to the role of interim CEO.”
Allwyn also noted that Walker did not lose his personal Gambling Commission license following the 2024 sanction, confirming his eligibility to operate within the regulated gambling industry.
Walker succeeds Andria Vidler as Allwyn UK's interim CEO. Although his appointment is temporary, the scrutiny from lawmakers adds additional pressure on the operator as it manages one of Britain's leading gambling brands.