Watford’s MP has raised concerns over Camelot being set to lose its licence to operate the National Lottery, pointing out Russian links to the new “preferred applicant”.

The Gambling Commission recently announced that Camelot – which is based in Tolpits lane in Watford - is set to lose its licence to operate the National Lottery, with plans to transfer it to Czech operator Allwyn in 2024.

Allwyn, owned by Czech businessman Karel Komarek and previously known as Sazka Entertainment, was declared the Gambling Commission’s “preferred applicant” to run the National Lottery.

Speaking at the Commons, MP Dean Russell revealed that he spoke with Camelot regarding the “disappointing news” they have not retained the licence.

While addressing his concerns to Deputy PM Dominic Raab, the MP pointed out that Allwyn’s Russian links.

Komarek’s company MND (Moravske Naftove Doly) formed a joint venture with Russian energy group Gazprom to build an underground gas storage facility in his home country, which opened in Moravia in 2016.

He said: “Camelot is one of the largest employers in Watford and for Watford, and its employees has worked tirelessly to successfully run the National Lottery for decades, they play an important role in communities across the UK, many local projects and good causes including in my constituency.

“So, whilst I obviously declare an interest in the gambling commission’s decision yesterday not to appoint the licence to Camelot, I do wonder, given the current situation in Ukraine, if (Mr Raab) considers it appropriate that the next licensee of the operator of the National Lottery is known to have a joint venture with Gazprom?”

 

Dean Russell Questioned Dominic Raab about Allwyn

Dean Russell Questioned Dominic Raab about Allwyn

 

In response, Mr Raab said: “I understand that Allwyn’s owner Mr Komarek, who has long criticised the Putin regime, is in discussions with the Czech Republic government regarding the joint venture with Gazprom and removing its involvement.”

The Gambling Commission noted in its announcement that it was “satisfied that no application is impacted by sanctions related to the conflict in Ukraine”.

 

The Camelot HQ in Tolpits Lane Photo: Nigel Cox

The Camelot HQ in Tolpits Lane Photo: Nigel Cox

 

Allwyn has pledged to “breathe fresh life” into the National Lottery and said: “We will immediately work to deliver our comprehensive transition plan and look forward to transforming the National Lottery, making it better for everyone.”