A body which advises the government on immigration has been warned of the potential implications that Brexit could have on the racing industry.
In a joint submission, The British Horseracing Authority (BHA), National Trainers Federation and Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association have outlined that in post Brexit Britain, it’s highly likely that work riders and staff employed in the breeding industry will return to the list of occupations that are currently not resident workers to fill vacancies.
The submission, which came as part of the government commissioning of the Migration Advisory Committee, to report on the economic and social repercussions that Brexit will cause, as well as analysing how the UK’s immigration system should be shaped after Britain officially departs the European Union, emphasised the importance of immigration on the racing industry.
Subsequently, the horseracing industry has highlighted key focuses in order to maintain the stability of the sport after Brexit. One of which is the free movement of people and horses within the thoroughbred industry.
The report stated: “There is concern, particularly among trainers, that leaving the EU will exacerbate the current staffing crisis – threatening the viability of trainers’ businesses, potentially compromising the safety and welfare of horses and staff, and undermining British racing’s world-leading status for racehorse training.
“We estimate that a reduction of 20 horses in training will result in a £1 million reduction in expenditure in the British rural economy.”
It continues: “We also believe, given the economic and cultural importance of British racing to the rural economy, and the British sporting landscape, that similar exemptions as currently exist for ballet dancers, who could be granted for the relatively small numbers of work-riders required.”
BHA executive director Will Lambe also commented: “We are responding all ways in a tripartite manner bringing in racecourses, horsemen and the governing body in terms of what our needs will be in terms of future immigration policy around highly skilled specialist roles but there is a long way to go still.”
Source: SBC News
