The British Horseracing Authority, the Racecourse Association (RCA), and the Horsemen’s Group (HG) have voiced strong opposition to the UK Gambling Commission’s proposed affordability checks, stating that they would have a devastating impact on the financial well-being of horseracing and its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The commission initiated a period of public consultation in November to gather feedback on the plan, which would mandate licensed operators to take action based on the information they possess regarding players’ potential susceptibility to gambling problems.
This includes the requirement for operators to implement more stringent measures, such as clear affordability assessments with thresholds established by the commission.
However, the three horseracing organizations have firmly opposed these proposals, expressing deep concern about the potential consequences for the horseracing industry, which experienced substantial financial losses in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
BHA Chief Executive Julie Harrington stated: “A significant portion of our efforts, and those of industry leaders, are currently focused on addressing a range of financial issues that are crucial to horseracing’s recovery from the impact of COVID-19.”
It is essential to be ready for any scenario and collaborate with the authorities and other athletic organizations to facilitate the return of viewers and proprietors as soon as feasible.
These plans emerge as the government declared an evidence-based examination of the Gambling Act to align it with the current market. The present Gambling Act was implemented in 2005.
The three entities expressed their willingness to cooperate with the government during the review to formulate new legislation suitable for the contemporary market and recognize the contribution of the betting and racing sectors to the economy.
The organizations also indicated their intention to engage with operators as part of their strategy to gather evidence supporting the need for reform within the review.
RCA Chief Executive David Armstrong stated: “Horse racing is approaching its most critical phase since the onset of the pandemic. With the affordability review, the gambling act review, and Brexit-related external regulatory issues, combined with the likelihood of racing enthusiasts not returning immediately, the next six months will be the most crucial period in our recovery journey.”
Racehorse Owners Association Chief Executive Charlie Liverton added: “The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to influence British racing, both on and off the racetrack.”
Worries exist regarding the possible effects of government oversight, including the Gambling Act and financial capability assessments.
“Our primary goal is to bring owners back to the racetracks, and we will collaborate with the BHA and the BMG to allow racing enthusiasts to attend racecourses as soon as feasible, adhering to regulations,” a statement declared.
Racing organizations are the most recent to voice their apprehensions regarding affordability checks within the gambling sector. The UK Gambling Commission has stated that these proposals could drive casual bettors towards the illicit market if income checks are excessively intrusive and burdensome.
The UK Gambling Commission has previously attempted to minimize the probability of players transitioning to offshore websites.
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