Report can become the catalyst for a much healthier state of affairs

James Thomas, deputy bloodstock editor, on what impact the Bloodstock Review could have on the industry

In his review of the buying and selling of bloodstock and racehorses within British racing, Justin Felice, who led the report, speaks of the opportunity for "transformational and once-in-a-generation change within the bloodstock industry".

The mere fact that the BHA felt compelled to commission this report in the first place suggests that dramatic change was coming, whether the industry anticipated it or not. Now that all 83 pages of the report have been published, the focus is on how the industry chooses to respond.

There is no doubt that some radical changes have been suggested, and not all will be met with universal support, not least the licensing of agents and the BHA becoming the authority responsible for regulating the conduct of all those within the bloodstock industry.

But, so long as all the relevant stakeholders are prepared to show co-operation, patience and willing, there is no reason the publishing of this report cannot become the catalyst for a much healthier state of affairs – even if its airing represents a painful episode for those within the bloodstock sector.