The British Horseracing Authority is navigating one of its most turbulent political periods in recent memory, as a new Chair steps in during a fierce industry-wide battle. Simon Cox was appointed the BHA’s new chair amid growing concerns within the body.
The BHA has declared itself “hugely disappointed” following the Gambling Commission’s decision to confirm that Financial Risk Assessments will be implemented across the gambling sector.
The racing body has warned that the introduction of affordability checks carries “severe financial implications” for the sport, adding urgency to its political campaigning efforts.
Racing Post journalist Lee Mottershead penned a notable op-ed effectively accusing the Gambling Commission of ignoring BHA requests for information relating to the regulator’s pilot of Financial Risk Assessments.
The Racing Post obtained emails through a freedom of information request, revealing correspondence between BHA’s Acting Chair David Jones and Gambling Commission Acting Chief Executive Sarah Gardner.
Jones reportedly contacted Gardner to request data from the FRA pilot scheme and to express concern that the regulator was being driven by what he described as “ideological will.”
The BHA’s requests for information about the pilot’s findings were ultimately not fulfilled by the Commission, deepening frustration within the racing industry.
Scepticism over affordability checks has now spread across the broader political landscape, with senior government advisors stepping down in protest at the direction of gambling regulation.
The Betting and Gaming Council has said it is considering “all options” in response to the Gambling Commission’s decision, with the possibility of legal action reportedly on the table.
The CMS Select Committee of the House of Commons wrote a letter to the Gambling Commission just three days after the Financial Risk Assessment decision was announced, signalling rare parliamentary scrutiny of the regulator’s move.
The BHA and BGC have found common cause in opposing FRAs, despite the two organisations having clashed previously over how best to respond to the government’s tax proposals for the betting industry.
The arrival of a new Chair at the BHA adds a fresh dimension to an already complex political situation, with the organisation now fighting on multiple regulatory and legislative fronts simultaneously.
