The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has criticised the UK Government’s decision to maintain the current Horserace Betting Levy rate, following the conclusion of a review process that lasted nearly three years.
In a Written Ministerial Statement, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport confirmed there would be no change to the levy, which requires betting operators to contribute a share of revenue to fund British horseracing.
The BHA responded with a statement questioning the rationale behind the decision, particularly in light of previous government indications that changes to the levy could be necessary to support the sport’s financial position.
Brant Dunshea, CEO, said: "It is disappointing that it has taken almost three years to determine there should be no change in the Levy rate."
Dunshea also pointed to inconsistencies in the Government’s position, noting that the DCMS had previously suggested that without an increase in the levy, other fiscal measures would have limited impact on racing’s funding.
He added: "Today's WMS leaves unexplained why, only a few months after the Budget, the DCMS now believes there is no need to change the Levy rate."
The authority also highlighted differences with other European markets, stating that horseracing in France and Ireland receives a significantly higher share of gambling revenues than in Britain.
In addition, the BHA raised concerns over the proposed introduction of affordability checks on gambling, arguing that such measures could shift activity towards unregulated markets and reduce funding for racing.
Dunshea stated: "The Government would be genuinely congratulated if it took this moment to recognise the impact that no increase in the Levy will have on horseracing's finances and stopped the introduction of affordability checks which threaten the sport's future."
Britain’s horseracing sector receives less than 3% of gambling revenues, compared to 7.7% in France and 8.4% in Ireland
