The British Horseracing Authority has expressed its gratitude for the significant input provided by a number of ministers during the recent parliamentary discussion on affordability assessments. This session marked the first occasion for Members of Parliament to thoroughly examine the proposed implementation of supposedly seamless checks, following the submission of an e-petition by 100,000 individuals to prompt the debate.
MPs including Matt Hancock, representing Newmarket, Connor McGinn from St. Helens North encompassing Haydock, and Philip Davies laid out their arguments against the checks at Westminster Hall. Julie Harrington, the BHA's chief executive, found the discussions to be encouraging.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Harrington remarked,
"The debate held yesterday on the implications of affordability checks on British horse racing has highlighted a profoundly critical matter for our industry. It was crucial for MPs to have adequate parliamentary time to rigorously examine the government's proposals, and we were heartened by the strong attendance at the Westminster Hall debate."
"Numerous MPs contributed significantly to the debate, and we are confident that Sports Minister Stuart Andrew will have attentively considered the viewpoints expressed. MPs from across the political spectrum demonstrated a clear understanding of the necessity for the government to safeguard and bolster British horse racing when revising gambling laws."
"If our industry is to thrive, supporting employment in rural areas and maintaining competitiveness against global counterparts, we trust that the government will take heed of this counsel. We were reassured by Minister Andrew's dismissal of the use of job titles and postcodes in reinforcing spending checks and his confirmation that such alterations will undergo a genuine trial."
"We will persist in advocating to the government that the impact of these checks, both on our sector and betting enthusiasts, requires thoughtful deliberation. We anticipate further discussions on this crucial matter for British horse racing with the Gambling Commission and DCMS."
During Monday's debate, Minister Andrew mentioned that the government and the Gambling Commission had acknowledged the raised concerns, yet the proposals would move forward. A trial of enhanced checks will run for a minimum of four months, during which the commission will address any arising issues. Minister Andrew highlighted that the apprehensions regarding the potential implications of the checks on horse racing are being treated with utmost seriousness.