Criminality and immorality stained an industry that at last seems minded to act

The road to this point has been long and bumpy, and we remain some way short of the desired destination, but progress is clearly being made. That is good.

When two years ago the Racing Post raised the subject of unethical behaviour and criminality in the bloodstock sales arena, all too many in the industry responded with hostility. One senior figure described the investigative work as "a distraction", while others have subsequently branded it "negative". That was wrong but it was to be expected.

Fortunately, the contents of Justin Felice's report, published last week, ought to be seen as positive for the industry – and, to its credit, the industry has largely responded in a positive manner.