Racing and breeding advance plans for a no-deal Brexit with horse movement key

The British racing and breeding industries have stepped up planning for a no-deal Brexit and repeated the vital importance of maintaining a system of two-way free cross-border movement for horses.

With the clock ticking to the United Kingdom's planned withdrawal from the European Union on March 29, and with the prospect of that happening without a withdrawal agreement being very much alive, concern has grown in racing and bloodstock about the potential impact of a no-deal departure.

Following lobbying by the British Horseracing Authority and Thoroughbred Breeders' Association, the British government has confirmed its intention to maintain the existing tripartite agreement, whereby thoroughbreds will still be able to travel freely into the UK from Ireland and France.

However, the stance set to be taken by the EU has been less clear, with some fearing delays and complications for those attempting to transport horses in the opposite directions.

Credit: David Cramphorn

Julian Richmond-Watson, chairman of the TBA and the British Thoroughbred Industries Brexit Steering Group, said: "With continuing uncertainty around the outcome of the Brexit negotiations, it's only right that the thoroughbred industries prepare for all scenarios, including a no deal which we hope can be avoided.

"We've been very encouraged by our engagement with the government around preparations for a no deal, and endorse its stance that current systems for horse movement into the UK will continue in these circumstances."

Should the UK leave the EU without a deal it will be treated as "a third country" and, if deemed appropriate, the European Commission has indicated it will move "swiftly" to permit free movement of live animals and animal products from the UK into the EU.

Free movement of horses among the potential issues posed by Brexit negotiationsCredit: Patrick McCann (racingpost.com/photos)

In a statement on Friday, the steering group said: "We understand that the technical discussions between Defra (the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) officials and the European Commission are currently ongoing and are hopeful that they'll reach a positive and timely conclusion.

"Upon the UK achieving such listing the process for thoroughbreds returning or travelling to, for instance, Ireland or France, will become clearer, and the relevant guidance will be provided."

Talks are ongoing concerning attempts to ease the process of EU citizens gaining future new employment in British racing, while Weatherbys has applied through Defra for the General Stud Book to be recognised by the Commission. This would be necessary for trade with EU nations.

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