I have exactly the same problem with this 14 month old engine on an English mower (Allet 14L)., Engine is hesitant when revving and will not restart if you shut it off while hot. I discovered two possible causes:-
1. an air leak on the gasket between the carb and the engine manifold. The carb is held on the same screws holding the air filter assembly.
2. If I removed the float chamber and ran some gasoline out and then reassembled it, the dam thing would then start when hot. I did this three times and it restarted after each disassemble and reassembly. Although the float valve seemed OK I suspect it was probably sticking when the engine is turned off. While the engine is running the vibration probably keeps the valve working but not enough to allow the engine to rev up high.
Hope this helps.