UK government has ‘no plans’ for wider greyhound racing ban
In a recent address to Parliament, Lisa Nandy, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, reassured members that there are currently “no plans” to extend Wales’ newly announced ban on greyhound racing across the United Kingdom.
Last week, the Welsh Government made headlines by announcing its intention to implement a greyhound racing ban “as soon as practically possible,” positioning Wales as the first region in the UK to halt this longstanding sport.
This declaration immediately sparked speculation regarding potential similar actions in other parts of the UK. Notably, several Members of Parliament (MPs) have expressed their robust support for greyhound racing. Among them is Stephanie Peacock, the Undersecretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, who has been vocal in defending the sport’s place in British culture.
During yesterday’s session, MP Louie French raised the pertinent question directly with Nandy, inquiring whether she shared Peacock’s sentiment that a ban should not be enforced. Nandy unequivocally stated, “I can answer that directly: I agree with the sports minister. We have absolutely no plans whatsoever to ban greyhound racing. We appreciate the joy it brings to many people in our country and the economic contribution it makes.”
The Greyhound Board of Great Britain Advocates for Support
In response to Nandy’s statements, Mark Moisley, Commercial Director at the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB), expressed gratitude for the government’s position. He emphasized the GBGB’s commitment to advocate for greyhound racing on a “cross-party basis,” aiming to secure a sustainable future for the sport.
Last week, Moisley criticized the Welsh government’s decision to adopt a ban, emphasizing the sport’s cultural significance in Britain. “Greyhound racing is enshrined in British culture and contributes £164 million annually to the economy, employing 5,400 individuals and remaining one of the top ten spectator sports in the UK,” he asserted, as reported by the Independent.
Moisley highlighted the industry’s focus on greyhound welfare, stating, “Our priority is to ensure this continues, with the welfare of greyhounds at the heart of this.” He underscored the necessity for enhanced financial backing from the betting sector to secure racing’s future and ensure the well-being of the animals involved.
“As an industry, we have made significant strides in improving the welfare of racing greyhounds at all stages of their lives,” Moisley said. “However, we require additional financial support from bookmakers via a compulsory levy to safeguard the long-term future of greyhound welfare and the sport as a whole.”
International Perspectives on Racing Bans
In conjunction with its announcement, the Welsh government indicated its willingness to collaborate with other countries that have embarked on similar paths regarding greyhound racing regulations.
Notably, New Zealand’s government has also announced intentions to discontinue greyhound racing, with Racing Minister Winston Peters stating plans for legislation to facilitate this change within the year.
A dedicated implementation group has been established in Wales to oversee the ban’s progress, drawing insights from New Zealand’s approach as it forms its operational strategy. This group is committed to engaging various stakeholders throughout the process.
As the conversation surrounding greyhound racing continues to evolve, the industry’s stakeholders remain vigilant, aiming to balance animal welfare with the cultural and economic significance of this beloved sport.
