SBC News Voice of the Sports Betting Industry
The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has stated that it is “deeply disappointed” with the decision to halt greyhound racing in Wales.
The country’s government announced plans to introduce the ban “as soon as practically possible”, citing concerns around animal welfare. A petition to ban the sport received more than 35,000 signatures.
However, the BGC believes the decision was taken to “satisfy campaigners” rather than being based on evidence.
Welsh Deputy First Minister, Huw Irranca-Davies, said in the announcement: “We also note what is happening in other countries across the world who are taking steps to ban this activity.
“As a result, I believe that now is the right time to move to ban greyhound racing in Wales. We are proud to be the first nation in the UK to do this.”
He emphasised that he wants a ban to come into force ‘as soon as practicably possible’, but noted that there will be work to do in ensuring the dogs, their owners, and those involved in the industry around the racetrack, can wind down from the sport while still protecting the welfare of dogs currently within the industry, local community and economy.
In contrast, a BGC spokesperson argued: “Greyhound racing is a working-class sport, enjoyed by thousands, and this draconian move will cost jobs, hurt the economy, while depriving people of a long established and legitimate source of joy.
“BGC members are proud to support greyhound racing and contribute significant funds for the welfare of dogs. Last year alone, our members voluntarily donated over £7m to the British Greyhound Racing Fund for the welfare of greyhounds.”
Likewise, the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) responded to the shock news by assuring that it has been working to guarantee that horseracing retains its high level of political support.
“We’re proud of our record on horse welfare and the improvements the sport has made to the safety of our horses,” the organisation said.
“The BHA firmly believes that when animal sport is well regulated it brings unrivalled quality of life and high standards of care for the animals involved.
“The BHA co-ordinates an active cross-party group for horseracing in the Senedd and will continue to use the group’s expertise as we work to ensure that horseracing retains its high level of political support in Wales.”
