BHA Chief Executive, Julie Harrington, has criticized the UK government’s planned gambling overhaul, particularly the proposed mandatory affordability checks. She highlighted the substantial economic benefits horseracing brings to the nation and called on the government to recognize the sport’s distinct characteristics when formulating gambling policy. Her statement follows a February 26th House of Commons discussion where numerous Members of Parliament raised concerns about the potential detrimental effects of the regulations and expressed their backing for the horseracing sector. Harrington conveyed gratitude for the MPs’ support and voiced optimism that the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, Stuart Andrew, would give due consideration to all perspectives.
The BHA is happy with Minister Andrew’s pledge to reevaluate the use of location and earnings as criteria in the augmented spending assessment. It’s encouraging that these modifications will undergo testing through authentic trial initiatives.”
This isn’t the organization’s first foray into the political arena. Just recently, the BHA issued a separate communication detailing its stance on the prevailing UK political landscape and its ramifications for the horse racing sector.
Harrington finished by stating, “We remain committed to advocating to government bodies that these evaluations must meticulously weigh the consequences for our industry and its supporters. We anticipate further dialogue with the Gambling Commission and DCMS on this critical matter for British horseracing.”