Camelot Group are the operators of the UK National Lottery. Camelot Group was awarded the National Lottery franchise in May 1994 (though the lottery did not start until November 1994) and was re-awarded the franchise in 2001 and again in 2007. The current franchise period started in 2009 and runs until 2019, with a possible extension of up to 5 years. The Government body The National Lottery Commission is responsible for deciding who is awarded the franchise.