The National Lottery

The first National Lottery draw took place on 19 November 1994. Since then, it has raised over £48 billion for good causes and supported 685,000 projects. Around 1% of total revenue is retained in profit, with 95% going to winners and society. Expenditure of total revenue on operating costs is about 4%, making it “one of the most cost-efficient major lotteries in Europe”. For the year ending 31 March 2023, total ticket sales were £8,190.3 million. This resulted in:

• £1,877.3 million generated for National Lottery projects.
• £4,694 million awarded to players in prizes.
• £982.8 million going to the Government in Lottery Duty.
• £254.7 million earned by retailers in commission.

On 1 February 2024, Allwyn became the National Lottery operator, taking over from Camelot.

This Briefing gives an overview of how the Lottery operates and is regulated.