The National Lottery is a state-franchised lottery that is regulated by the Gambling Commission. It was established in 1994 and is currently operated by the Camelot Group. The group has been granted three lottery licences in 1994, 2001 and 2007 and will run the National Lottery through 2024. A successor to the Camelot Group is Allwyn Entertainment.
The first lottery was drawn on November 19, 1994. The majority of the money spent on the National Lottery goes to the prize fund, with just under half going to good causes. The remainder is split between the Government and lottery operators. For example, 12 per cent of every ticket purchased goes towards the National Lottery’s prize fund.
The draws are broadcast on BBC One twice a week. Until 2010, the draw was held on Christmas Day, however it is now held on Wednesday or Saturday. Saturday draws began on 19 November 1994, when the draw was still known as the National Lottery. In February 1997, the first Wednesday draw was held. The lottery’s YouTube channel broadcasts the draws live.
Tickets can be purchased in person at licensed premises in the United Kingdom or online over the internet. However, only people who have bank accounts in the UK can buy tickets online. The National Lottery is regulated by the Gambling Commission. Prior to 1 April 1999, the lottery was governed by the Office of the National Lottery.
