British racing told to step up planning for no-deal Brexit

British racing's Brexit Steering Group has told the sport it should start making plans for how it may be affected by no deal.

In a note sent to the sport's participants, the group said the political situation surrounding the United Kingdom's scheduled departure from the European Union on October 31 remained "unpredictable".

However, the group said it "strongly advises that all industry participants read this note and the guidance that is available, and start making plans for how a no-deal Brexit might affect them."

The industry was told forward planning was "particularly important" for those hoping to travel to the EU for business purposes and those planning to transport horses to the EU after October 31.

"There are preparations that you should be making in case the relevant regulations change significantly," the note said, giving the example of blood tests that may become a requirement before travel.

Free movement of racehorses and breeding stock between the UK and EU, which had been enshrined in the Tripartite Agreement, will cease to apply in the event of no deal being agreed on October 31.

Other areas the group said it had focused on included the rights of EU and European Economic Area workers in British racing and breeding; recognition of the General Stud Book by the EU; the application of tariffs to sales of geldings; and other areas including VAT, provision of veterinary medicines and data sharing between regulators.

The guidance to the industry warned it was feasible that clarity on the final outcome of the negotiations between the UK and EU would not be achieved until on, or very close to, the October 31 deadline.

"Further updates will be provided in the coming weeks as the situation develops and more guidance becomes available," the note added.

A dedicated email address has been created for members of the racing industry with questions about a no-deal Brexit –brexit@weatherbys.co.uk – and there is also a dedicated section on the BHA website.

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