Alderney’s gambling regulator has signed Guernsey’s Financial Crime Lead as its new Commissioner as the islands continue to aim for high standards following the successful Moneyval evaluation.

The Alderney Gambling Control Commission oversees the licensing and regulation of all online gambling businesses registered in the island.

It’s an economy worth around £2million to the island’s public purse each year based on figures for 2023 and 2024.

In the past the sector has contributed closer to £5m to the States annual tax take.

Now, Richard Walker will be tasked with overseeing the work of the AGCC as he joins the four-strong line-up of superintendents employed by the AGCC.

Jeremy Thompson has stepped down from his role, with Mr Walker replacing him in the first change seen to the board for 15 years.

Mr Walker is the Director of Financial Crime Policy and International Adviser to the Policy and Resources Committee of the States of Guernsey, meaning he will contribute a pan island outlook along with his international experience as a strategist and regulatory adviser. 

Chairman of the Commissioners, Lord Faulkner of Worcester welcomed his appointment calling it “a landmark appointment for the AGCC”.

“We looked across a broad field of possible candidates from many sectors. but it was clear after our conversations with Richard Walker that he has unmatched knowledge in areas that are vital to the continuing success of the AGCC,” said Lord Faulkner.

“We are delighted to welcome Richard but are very sorry to see Jeremy depart and thank him for all his outstanding work for the Commission since 2010.” he added.

Mr Walker led the States of Guernsey’s interagency response to last year’s Moneyval evaluation of the Bailiwick, which included Alderney and its e-gambling industry.

The AGCC was one of the two AML/CFT supervisors assessed, and the Bailiwick secured an outstanding result in this area.

The States of Alderney’s Policy & Finance Committee voted to approve Mr Walker’s appointment to the AGCC board of Commissioners at their meeting in July.

“I would like to thank the Commissioners and the States of Alderney for their strong backing, and I look forward to supporting the work of the AGCC as a highly capable and leading regulator in international e-gambling,” said Mr Walker.

The AGCC’s other Commissioners are the forensic linguist Isabel Picornell from Alderney and UK-based lawyer and barrister Christopher Moger KC.

Together with Mr Walker and Lord Faulkner, they have the power to grant, refuse or revoke a gambling licence or certification. They also offer strategic guidance to the Commission.

Since the AGCC was set up in 2000, it has issued licences to more than 40 international online gambling operators.

In that time, it has contributed around £42.5m to the States of Alderney.