Affordability checks will do "untold damage" to British racing, says Nicky Henderson
Trainer calls for measure proposed in government’s white paper to be scrapped before it destroys racing’s finances
British horseracing trainer Nicky Henderson has slammed affordability checks, urging people to speak up and halt the implementation of the measures before they “smash a hole in racing’s finances”.
Writing in the Racing Post, Henderson added his voice to those who believe the scrutinised measure should be scrapped entirely, believing it will do ‘untold damage’ to not only the British racing industry but local areas as well.
Henderson said: “I have spoken to several owners who do like to bet and are already being impacted by affordability checks and are furious that the gambling white paper is set to make it even harder for them.
“It is completely wrong in principle – and even if you don’t bet, it doesn’t mean this has nothing to do with you. Affordability checks are going to smash a hole in racing’s finances and do untold damage to British racing and rural communities.
“That’s why I have been urging people in Lambourn to sign the sport’s petition against affordability checks. I’m now using this email to ask you to sign as well. This is a massive issue and we must do all we can to make a difference and stamp on it before it stamps on us.”
Henderson’s comments come as a petition aimed at razing affordability checks near the 100,000 mark, with the government having responded last week.
The government statement once again suggested the measures will not be implemented until they can be frictionless, which has been a major bugbear for industry figures since the release of the white paper in Apri.
The petition was launched by The Jockey Club CEO Nevin Truesdale on 1 November. Once any petition reaches the 100,000 threshold it can be considered for debate in parliament.