BHA statement released after publication of the Gambling Act White Paper
The Gambling Act Review White Paper, an important step towards ensuring proper gambling regulations are relevant to the digital age, was released on Thursday by the UK Government. The British Horse Racing Authority (BHA) welcomed the news.
There will now be a period of consultation between the Government and partners during which the BHA will continue to work to deliver a secure future for the sport.
Joe Saumarez Smith, Chairman of the UK Horse Racing Authority and member of the Gambling Strategy Group (the organization that has led representatives around the Review of the Gambling Act and the reform of the Horse Racing Betting Tax) ) said: “Today’s publication of the White Paper is a pivotal moment for the industry on an issue critical to its future prosperity.
“It is important that any regulatory framework for gambling recognizes that millions of people enjoy betting on horse racing safely, and takes action when necessary to protect those who are harmed. related to gambling. Racing in the UK has been supporting work in this area by developing a safer gambling policy, based on established good practice across our racecourses.
“We are delighted that the UK Government has reflected on the detailed representations of our industry and recognized the importance of UK races in today’s White Paper. Over the course of the past two years, we have spoken clearly and unanimously with the Government about the importance of proportional legislation and the significant potential for unintended consequences.
“While there is a range of measures included in the White Paper, there will be a series of further important consultation processes – including on the critical area of affordability testing – in the coming months. .
“In these circumstances, we will continue to assert that a comprehensive test of affordability is not appropriate, with any measure needing to be proportionate and targeted at individuals and their specific circumstances.
“We will now conduct a further review of these measures, assess their impact on Racing in the UK, and will provide a comprehensive, evidence-based response to the various processes that the Book covers. white today has begun.”
Julie Harrington, Chief Executive of the UK Horse Racing Organisation, also underlined the importance of the White Paper and confirmed the Government’s upcoming review of the Horse Racing Betting Tax and added: I very much welcome the launch of the Horse Racing Betting Tax review. This critical review provides an opportunity for the Government to ensure UK races receive a fair return from betting, protect the sport from inflationary pressures and maintain its position as a world leader. about our race and purebred breeding.
“We urge the Government to complete and undertake this Tax review as soon as possible to support Britain’s great sporting and cultural assets.
“While the publication of the White Paper provides a roadmap for the future of gambling regulation in the UK, it is clear that substantial consultations will be required in the crucial weeks and months ahead.”
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This story was posted in Europe, Share Europe News, Europe’s Top News and tagged BHA, BHA President Joe Saumarez Smith, BHA CEO Julie Harrington, British Equestrian Authority, the future of the UK racing industry, Gambling Act Review White Paper, Gambling regulations for the digital age, statement of support, UK Government.