Charles Counsell OBE Named Interim Chair of Gambling Commission
The Great Britain Gambling Commission has announced the appointment of Charles Counsell OBE as interim chair. This decision follows the upcoming departure of Marcus Boyle, who will step down on 31 January 2025 after serving as chair for over three years. Counsell will assume his nine-month term starting 1 February 2025.
Counsell, an experienced executive, has been the senior independent director of the Gambling Commission since April 2024 and a non-executive director since September 2023. His career highlights include a four-year tenure as CEO of the Pensions Regulator, where he spearheaded a new corporate strategy and implemented initiatives focused on equality, diversity, inclusion, and climate change. Between his roles at the Pensions Regulator, he served as CEO of the Money Advice Service for 18 months.
Gambling Commission Prepares for Reform
Counsell takes the helm at a critical time for the Gambling Commission, as the organisation navigates major reforms introduced through the government’s recent Gambling Act Review. Key changes include:
- New Statutory Levy: Replacing the voluntary system, this levy on gambling profits will range from 0.1% to 1.1% of gross gambling yield (GGY), depending on the business type and sector. The government anticipates raising an additional £100 million annually, with the new scheme expected to launch next year.
- Online Slot Stake Limits: New regulations will cap maximum bets for online slots at £2 per spin for players aged 18 to 24. For players aged 25 and over, the limit will be set at £5 per spin.
These measures aim to address public concerns regarding responsible gambling and align industry practices with updated legislation.
Counsell’s leadership is expected to guide the Gambling Commission through this transformative phase, ensuring smooth implementation of the new reforms.
