Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Gambling White Paper: Horse-racing Sector

Thursday 15 June 2023 · 3 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 3 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Government recognises horse-racing's contribution to British culture and economy.
  • Review did not assess the horserace betting levy but is ongoing to ensure proper funding.
  • Financial risk checks will be designed to be minimally intrusive for harmless punters.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Edward Leigh Con Gainsborough
Culture, Media & Sport
Context

The question arises from concerns about the impact of new regulations on the horse-racing industry, which is significant in terms of economic and cultural contribution.

Question

What assessment has her Department made of the potential impact of the gambling White Paper on the horse-racing sector? The Minister recognises the sector's contributions but seeks clarity on specific impacts and future funding mechanisms.

Answer from Stuart Andrew

The Government recognises racing's contribution to British sporting culture and economy. The review did not assess the horserace betting levy but is reviewing it to ensure appropriate funding for racing continues. Impact will be minimal in context of overall income, but a thorough review is ongoing.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The specific assessment requested on the impact of the gambling White Paper was not fully provided with detailed figures or mechanisms.

How: Reviewing To Ensure Appropriate Funding

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Q2 Edward Leigh Con Gainsborough
Culture, Media & Sport
Context

Concerns are raised about the potential impact of new financial risk checks proposed in the White Paper, particularly their effect on harmless punters and the horse-racing industry.

Question

Does the Minister accept that there is an inextricable link between horse-racing and betting? Both give enormous pleasure to millions. Does he agree that sweeping blanket checks are neither advisable nor appropriate for the harmless punter?

Answer from Stuart Andrew

We took careful consideration of precisely that matter when we developed the White Paper. Financial risk checks will be designed to be frictionless for the majority who enjoy a flutter harmlessly. Early identification and intervention is aimed at those where this causes harm.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The Minister did not directly address whether sweeping blanket checks are advisable or appropriate.

How: Designed To Be Frictionless For Harmless Bettors

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Q3 Jim Shannon DUP Strangford
Culture, Media & Sport
Context

There is concern that any changes resulting from the gambling review may negatively impact the horse-racing industry, which is significant in terms of local employment and economic activity.

Question

Can the Minister assure me that whatever happens in relation to the gambling review, the horse sector will benefit? The horse sector is very important for my constituents in Strangford. Gambling alongside it also plays a role.

Answer from Stuart Andrew

We are mindful of the great contribution horse-racing makes to this country's economy, followed worldwide. We are doing a review into the levy, speaking to industry and asking for evidence so we can make a considered decision.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The specific assurance requested was not fully provided with detailed actions or timelines.

How: Considered Decision

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