Camelot in the hot seat

UK National Lottery operator Camelot found itself on the wrong side of the UK Gambling Commission earlier this week.

Following a Lotto draw on 19 October 2013, Camelot incorrectly calculated the Lotto jackpot prize tier.  The draw originally broadcast a jackpot of GBP 6.2 million which was subsequently recalculated to GBP 4.8 million.

Three punters who held winning jackpot tickets were told they had each won GBP 2.1 million, but the correct amount was actually GBP 1. 6 million.

A financial penalty of GBP 100 000 was imposed by the UK Gambling Commission, together with a direction that Camelot commissions an independent review, subject to consultation on scope, of its control environment performance as provided for under Condition 17 of the Licence.

The Commission said although an isolated incident “confidence in the accurate calculation of prize monies is a critical part of maintaining public trust in the integrity of the National Lottery.”

In related news, the Commission updated its FAQ section regarding the Gambling Licencing and Advertising Act and reminds offshore gambling operators providing online gambling to consumers in Britain that they have until 16 September to apply for a continuation licence to ensure their business is not impacted by amendments to the Act.

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