Two codes working together says Davies

GBGB chairman Sir Philip Davies is hoping his recent appointment to the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) will help both greyhound racing and horseracing navigate the similar challenges ahead for both and that the two sports can continue to work together.

In March, the Welsh Senedd voted into law the Prohibition of Greyhound Racing (Wales) Bill and in response a BHA spokesperson said: “We are aware of decisions made by politicians in Scotland and Wales to ban greyhound racing, following the respective governments’ support for the bills laid in the Scottish Parliament and Senedd.

“At every stage, both governments have been keen to stress both on the record and directly to the BHA and Scottish Racing that there is no connection between these bills and the future of the horseracing industry in Scotland and Wales.”

The response was seen as dismissive by many in greyhound racing who had hoped for a stronger stance and support from horseracing’s governing body.

However, Davies says relations between the two sports are closer than perceived, noting that the GBGB and BHA have met regarding the challenges both face.

“Mark Bird [GBGB CEO] and I have had meetings with BHA CEO Brant Dunshea and director of communications Greg Swift, and I think the relationship between the two bodies is better than it is perhaps publicly perceived,” said Davies.

“There are well-reported, similar challenges ahead such as taxation on the betting industry.

“However, plenty of opportunities remain for these two fantastic sports, and I am driven to help steer both through any troubles that may lie ahead.”

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